EAL Program and Model
Terminology
How does SAS support English Language Learners?
In order to provide students with the most effective language learning environment, SAS uses a sheltered English immersion model, which allows for differentiated instruction based on English proficiency. That is, all students are immersed in a rigorous college-preparatory academic curriculum; however, based on language proficiency testing and a review of previous school records, some students receive EAL support in addition to their core classes. This support can come through students meeting for an additional class with the EAL teacher or by receiving support from the EAL teacher in their core classes. The EAL teacher meets with the core teachers on a regular basis to discuss curriculum, ways to scaffold content material, and plan their co-teaching classes. The goal of EAL support is to enhance academic English skills and support students in making the transition to an American high school learning environment- while at the same time promoting students’ home language and culture.
Standards, Assessment and Curriculum
The EAL department at SAS uses the WIDA Standards for assessing English Language Development for purposes of Admission and on-going language assessment to inform instruction.
- EAL: English as an Additional Language; We are EAL teachers and form the EAL department.
- ELLs: English Langauge Learners; English language learners are students whose first language is not English.
- At SAS, "ELLs" include students who are currently enrolled in the EAL program and those who have been exited from these programs in the past, as well as bilingual students who may have never received special English language development classes. It is important to keep in mind that even native English-speaking students have a variety of ability levels in written and spoken English.
- EAL Plus: direct English language instruction in the place of a global/foreign language.
How does SAS support English Language Learners?
In order to provide students with the most effective language learning environment, SAS uses a sheltered English immersion model, which allows for differentiated instruction based on English proficiency. That is, all students are immersed in a rigorous college-preparatory academic curriculum; however, based on language proficiency testing and a review of previous school records, some students receive EAL support in addition to their core classes. This support can come through students meeting for an additional class with the EAL teacher or by receiving support from the EAL teacher in their core classes. The EAL teacher meets with the core teachers on a regular basis to discuss curriculum, ways to scaffold content material, and plan their co-teaching classes. The goal of EAL support is to enhance academic English skills and support students in making the transition to an American high school learning environment- while at the same time promoting students’ home language and culture.
Standards, Assessment and Curriculum
The EAL department at SAS uses the WIDA Standards for assessing English Language Development for purposes of Admission and on-going language assessment to inform instruction.
- It is content-based.
- There are standards and benchmarks for grade levels and content areas.
- It assists with curriculum development.
- It provides Can Do Descriptors.
- It uses Academic Language based assessment and reporting.
- The WIDA is a specialized assessment tool.
WIDA Standards
The EAL program at SAS uses WIDA standards.
For information about WIDA Consortium, WIDA Standards, Can-do Descriptors visit the WIDA official website. http://www.wida.us/
For information about WIDA Consortium, WIDA Standards, Can-do Descriptors visit the WIDA official website. http://www.wida.us/