ESL Program
Program Outline for ESL
The goal of this program is to provide ESL students with planned, systematic instruction and support that will enable them to speak the English language fluently, read and comprehend grade appropriate materials, and write effective and convincing compositions. Since most of the language arts are developmental, success at the next level is built upon success at the present one.
Often, a student will need to be registered in a given level for more than one semester as language acquisition takes time to master. A student advances to the next level of ESL when he/she has completed the necessary course work, has acquired the necessary language skills, and has an adequate placement score and reading level to indicate advancement.
There are six levels:
Level 1: Beginner
The student demonstrates no skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing in English. The student may have had significant gaps in previous schooling. (No credits)
Level 2: Beginner
The student demonstrates limited competence in listening, speaking, reading and writing in English. The student will work extensively on conversational skills.(5 credits)
Level 3: Intermediate
The student demonstrates functional fluency in listening and speaking in English. Reading and writing skills are below grade level. The student will work extensively on reading comprehension. (5 credits)
Level 4: High Intermediate
The student demonstrates proficient skills in listening and speaking, and is reading close to grade level. The student will work extensively on writing and composition. Students are tested annually. (5 credits)
Level 5: Advanced
The student is close to grade level in English. The student may continue to require some subject-specific support. Students are tested annually. (No credits)
Level 6: Meets Acceptable Standards
The student is working at grade level and requires no additional supports. The student is demitted from ESL. (Demitted)
According to Alberta Education, there are steps when students are transitioning from one division to another – grade 3 to 4, grade 6 to junior high, and junior to senior high Since the skill level is more difficult at a higher division, a student will typically test at a lower level. For example, a junior high student who is Level 4 will typically test as a Level 3 in senior high.
ESL Level 4 is the prerequisite course for grade 10 English. An ESL student cannot be registered in English 10-1 or 10-2 without successfully completing ESL Level 4. It is not permissible, for example, to register in English 10-1 in the first semester and ESL Level 4 in the second semester.
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