Embedded Files
The English Language Learning program began at Bowen in the early 1990s. Teachers and parents in Newton saw the need for specialized English instruction for the students in the school community who spoke a language other than English at home. When the first students were enrolled in the program, Wanda Bender was the only teacher supporting 15 kindergarten students. Now, our ELL program has about 50 students in Kindergarten through 5th grade who are supported by a team of four ELL staff members.
This program is designed to support all students (K-5) at all levels of English language proficiency (beginning to advanced). We instruct students in the four domains of language (speaking, listening, reading, and writing).
ELLs in the Newton Public Schools district are identified using the W-APT (WiDA ACCESS Placement Test). Every student who speaks a language other than, or in addition to, English at home is given the W-APT by a member of the ESL team. This tool assesses a student's speaking, listening, reading and writing proficiency in English. The results of this assessment determine which students are recommended for the ELL program.
ELL support is offered in both a pull-out and push-in format. In pull-out, ELL students work in the ELL classroom in a small-group or in a one-on-one situation. This work frequently supports the classroom curriculum; at other times, particularly with newcomers, these lessons focus primarily on acquiring English language. Push-in support is provided in the classroom, often in a small group, where the ELL teacher supports the classroom curriculum and expands the students' academic language and comprehension.
The ELL classroom is a safe space for students learning English, where they feel comfortable enough to take risks in their new language. Our classroom is a place where students love to learn. Even after students exit the ELL program, they still come back to say hello.
For more information about the ELL Program in Newton, please visit the Newton Public Schools ELL Department webpage.
Report abuse