English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Fort McMurray Public School Division (FMPSD) offers support to students who are learning English.
Our English as an Additional Language (EAL) program aims to enable English-language learners to succeed academically and complete graduate requirements. Programming at elementary and secondary schools varies depending on the needs of the student and the specialized teacher support available at each school. When determining programming for students, the following are considered:
Age
Language ability
Prior schooling
Student goals
At the secondary level, support for EAL students may be provided:
Direct instruction: These classes focus on language proficiency, the ability to speak, read, write and listen with comprehension. Direct instruction classes take themes from English language arts, math, science, and social studies to build the vocabulary and academic skills necessary for students to integrate fully into the regular classroom. Most direct instruction classes provide an elective credit and are offered at all grades for all levels of language proficiency.
EAL support: This is a period in which students receive additional time and assistance to complete coursework from their classes.
Our schools utilize the Alberta ESL Curriculum for ESL Levels 1-5; each course is worth 5 credits.
Alberta ESL LDC courses are worth 5 credits each and contribute to the EAL student's pathway towards mainstream courses.
Learning a language is a process that takes a lot of time and hard work. The speed at which a student learns is affected by many factors. Students at the secondary level are encouraged to consult with their EAL teacher and/or student services to choose their classes.
Contact
For more information, please contact your respective elementary or secondary school. You may also contact the Director of Teaching & Learning, Jen Quigley, by phone at 780-788-8008 or by email at jen.quigley@fmpsd.ab.ca.
Parents
Our Division Office
231 Hardin Street
Fort McMurray, Alberta
T9H 2G2