STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY
The English as a Second Language Department offers a curriculum structured to meet the needs of those international students with limited English proficiency.
The Department uses the common reference points as outlined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages Developed through a process of scientific research and wide consultation, this document provides a practical tool for setting clear standards to be attained at successive stages of learning and for evaluating outcomes in an internationally comparable manner. The Framework provides a basis for the mutual recognition of language qualifications, thus facilitating educational and occupational mobility.
The European Framework is a document which describes in a comprehensive manner:
the competences necessary for communication the related knowledge and skills the situations and domains of communication
The Framework facilitates a clear definition of teaching and learning objectives and methods. It provides the necessary tools for assessment of proficiency. http://www.coe.int/t/dg4/linguistic/Source/Framework_EN.pdf
OBJECTIVES
Develop the reading, speaking, writing and listening skills that allow students to function competently in the United States.
Support and help students adjust to everyday life at the Interlochen Arts Academy.
Broaden the students’ cultural knowledge through interaction with ideas from a variety of countries including the United States.
Develop the technological skills that prepare students for the 21st century.
SPECIAL PROJECTS
Since 2001, The ESL Department collaborated with an independent radio broadcaster in creating, producing, directing and performing an original radio drama. Past dramas include “The Saphire Mummy”, “Class Project”, “But Not Our Souls”, and “Stand Up! and Sit Down!”. In April 2008, the production is based on Michigan history: :Dr. William Beamont, The Michigan Years”.
DESCRIPTION OF COURSE
ESL ENGLISH:
The three levels of the ESL English courses are designed to prepare international students for the demands students will encounter in the rigorous academic and arts courses. This includes developing the skills necessary for independent work, group work, class discussion, and writing research papers. The fact that international students must take standardized college entrance tests is also considered as part of ESL instruction.
BASIC USER (ESL I)
Full-year course
2 credits per semester, meets daily.
Only 1 credit of the 4 credits earned in Beginning ESL will count toward the English graduation requirements; the other 3 credits will count as other academic credit
Basic Users are required to take four hours of Beginning ESL each day.
Students in grades 9 and 10 are also required to enroll in the ESL Multicultural Perspectives class first semester and the ESL Math/Science class second semester.
Objectives:
Throughout the course, the students will develop pronunciation accuracy, present speeches and role play, develop a broad vocabulary, read extensively from a variety of sources, and write multiple paragraph compositions. Inductive and deductive grammar instruction followed by student application to all work is expected.
Text:
Azar, Fundamentals of English Grammar
Adapted and authentic Short Stories, short expository texts in current issues.
INDEPENDENT USER (ESL II)
Full-year course
1 credit per semester
Class meets daily.
Independent Users are required to enroll in this class and ONE elective of ESL per day.
New students in grades 9 and 10 must enroll in the ESL Multicultural Perspectives class first semester and the ESL Math/Science class second semester.
Students in grades 11 and 12 must enroll in either ESL American Experience or ESL U.S. Government. I
Objectives:
This course of study is an extension of the skills learned previously as a Basic User. It focuses on syntax, continued vocabulary development, reading, oral comprehension through the use of audiocassettes and presentations, speaking and pronunciation skills, writing multiple paragraph compositions demonstrating organization of ideas, use of a thesis statement, and supportive elements. Inductive and deductive grammar instruction followed by student application to all work is expected. Along with Advanced ESL, this class contributes to the literary skills students need in mainstream classes.
PROFICIENT USER (ESL III)
Full-year course
1/2 credit per semester
Class meets twice a week for 2 periods.
More advanced students of English as a Second Language are required to take two hours of Advanced ESL two days per week.
Students in grades 11 and 12 may enroll in ESL American Experience and/or ESL Government.
Objectives:
Students continue to develop skills in English, while reading and analyzing various works of literature, writing essays of various forms, and completing oral presentations on pre-selected personal and literary topics. Advanced vocabulary enrichment is emphasized, as is the continuation of accurate pronunciation. Inductive and deductive grammar instruction followed by student application to all work is expected. Advanced ESL is a transitional class that prepares students for mainstream classes.
Text
Orwell, Animal Farm
Hinton, The Outsiders
Miller, The Crucible
Lee, To Kill A Mockingbird
Laird, Kiss The Dust
OTHER ESL COURSES:
There are no additional fees for the following ESL classes. They are included in the ESL English placement costs.
ESL MULTICULTURAL PERSPECTIVES (ESL I)
First Semester course
9-10 grades
To be taken with Beginning or Intermediate ESL
1/2 credit, meets daily.
Objectives:
This is a multi-disciplinary course connecting language, geography, sociology, and current and world events. The course emphasizes note-taking skills, research, presentations, and projects. Guest speakers add information on a variety of topics, including cultures and religions.
ESL MATH/SCIENCE (ESL I)
Second Semester course
9-10 grades
To be taken with Basic or Independent Students
1/2 credit, class meets daily.
Objectives:
This course is designed as a prerequisite for entrance into the Math/Science Division. It is team taught by instructors from the ESL and Math/Science departments. Goals include the learning of mathematical and scientific language and an introduction to basic concepts. Students use technology, conduct labs, and complete projects based on scientific concepts. Students who are placed into English I and II will be expected to take this course. Any exceptions to this must be made by the International Student Coordinator and the Academic and College Counseling office.
ESL U.S. History (ESL II)
Pre-requisite: at or above the Independent Level;
open to grades 9-12
Full year course
1/2 credit per semester
Class meets twice a week for two periods.
Objectives:
In the first semester, this course traces American history from the experiences of the earliest inhabitants, colonization, and the American Revolution through the Civil War and Reconstruction. Particular attention will be given to the “peculiar institution” of slavery, westward expansion, and the idea of manifest destiny. During the second semester, the economic and cultural changes in the nation will be explored, along with America’s increasing international environment. Required work includes written and oral analysis or primary source documents, oral presentations, and completion of a research project.
Text:
Paulsen, Soldier’s Heart
ESL U.S. GOVERNMENT (ESL III)
Pre-requisite: at or above the Proficient Level;
open to grades 11-12 (grade 10 with instructor’s permission)
Full year course
1/2 credit per semester
Class meets twice a week for two periods.
Objectives:
This course surveys the American governmental system, investigating political philosophies on which the system was based and the process by which the government was established. Looking at the Constitution, students examine the principles of American Democracy, including Federalism, Checks and Balances, Separation of Powers, and Judicial Review. The Legislative, Judicial, and Executive branches are considered in depth. Particular attention will be given to the rights and responsibilities of citizens and to the American economic system. Required work includes written and oral analysis of primary source documents, oral presentations, and completion of a research paper.
Text
Glencoe Publishers, Civics Today
