English as a Second Language (EL) is a class designed for children who have limited English skills. Most students new to the English language will go through a silent period at school, until they feel comfortable with their surroundings. This may last a few days to a few months, depending on the personality of the student. Many times the EL classroom is where they will speak their first words, and I love being the recipient of that honor!
Students are tested to determine which level of support will be required to help them be successful in their grade level classroom. The EL program allows the teacher to be flexible with scheduling, therefore your child's time with me will change throughout the year as they progress. I generally use a combination of the following, to give your student every possible learning opportunity: Pull Out Sessions (students go to EL classroom) - 1 on 1 time: 30 minutes of undivided teacher attention; tailored to meet your child's needs - Small Group: 2-4 students with similar abilities; provides peer interaction through learning games Push In Sessions (EL teacher goes to student's classroom) - 1 on 1 time or Small Group: undivided teacher attention for the duration of a task (i.e. writing assignment or science lab) Enrichment Sessions (students pulled from classroom) - Usually done in small group format. Enrichment sessions are designed for students on the verge of exiting the EL program. Each session focuses on a specific task like speaking or writing.
The amount of time I spend with your child every week is determined by their EL level and how they are doing in their classes. Here are the general guidelines I will use: Level 1 & 2: Minimum of 2 hours per week Level 3: 1-2 hours per week Level 4: Maximum of 1 hour per week
Students will take a WIDA test in January/February to monitor their progress; however results will not be available until June. I will use their WIDA test results, class grades, and teacher feedback to determine if they are eligible to exit the EL program. Exited students will be monitored for two years to ensure that their academic success continues.