ENGLISH LANGUAGE EDUCATION

This course is for students new to the United States and just beginning the study of English. Thematic units of study introduce the student to the basics of English, beginning with listening and speaking, and gradually adding reading and writing. The emphasis of ESL I is social English, listening skills, and local American social norms at school and at home. Students make comparisons and analyze cultural similarities and differences between the US and their home countries. The beginning nature of this course and the discipline needed in the process of language acquisition requires dedication and effort on the part of the student. There are written and memorization homework assignments, regular quizzes and bi-weekly vocabulary and dictation tests as well as a mid-term and a final exam.

This course reinforces and expands upon the basic second language skills acquired in ESL I and adds the essential component of academic language. Students are expected to participate in a variety of language activities appropriate to both social and academic situations. They will expand upon basic vocabulary with both general and specific vocabulary for their various areas of study: mathematics, science, ELA, and social studies. The different styles of discourse of these disciplines are discussed, and beginning formal writing is emphasized. Role play, dialogues, and oral presentations will be performed in class, and students will depend less on translation and begin to rely on English only explanations. Expect bi-weekly academic vocabulary quizzes, written homework, and a mid-year and a final exam.

This course is a continuation of the academic English skills introduced in ESL II or in the student’s home country. The class is taught in English and the students are expected to use only English in class. Role play, dialogues, and oral presentations will be performed in class, and there will be further exploration of cultural topics. There is peer and teacher support for academic work in content classes. Expect bi-weekly academic vocabulary quizzes, dictation quizzes, note-taking, written homework, and a mid-year and a final exam.