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English as a Second Language (ESL)

All non-native English speakers are evaluated by the ESL department prior to their acceptance to SSIS and placement within regular classes. SSIS provides a limited English as a Second Language (ESL) program for non-native speakers who require support while developing their English language competencies to a level where they can be successful within the mainstream classroom. Development of reading and writing proficiency, as well as oral and listening communication skills, form the basis of instruction within ESL classes.

Elementary

The Elementary Language Arts program in grades 2-5 is supplemented with an ESL support team of experienced and certified ESL teachers. They work closely with the classroom teachers to enhance the students’ English language and curriculum content acquisition.

Entry: All students whose mother tongue is not English will be tested to ascertain their level of English proficiency before being placed in a class.

The aim of the ESL Program is to:

• Develop English language skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing to a level where students can function effectively in the mainstream classroom
• Build the student's confidence in using English both in and outside of the classroom
• Enable the student to participate fully in all school activities
• Develop a positive attitude to school culture

The progress of ESL students is continuously monitored. The ESL teacher, in consultation with the classroom teacher, literacy coordinator and the principal, will ensure the amount of support required to meet the needs of the student.

Middle School/High School

The ESL program uses a Sheltered Immersion model of instruction, which provides support while simultaneously immersing the student in the mainstream population. Depending upon their English proficiency level, high school ESL students may be enrolled in specially designed English Learning Development (ELD) classes where the focus is on improving skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Due to the rigor of instruction at the high school level, all prospective 9th and 10th grade students must be in the high intermediate range of English language proficiency. Students applying for grade 11 must be in the upper end of the high intermediate range.