Program Factors

 

Factors for Setting up an ESL Program 

    Setting up an ESL program depends on the nature of the school's programming, the number of ESL students in the school, and the needs of the students. Here are factors to consider when implementing an ESL program:

  • The English language level and learning needs of the students
  • The number of ESL students attending the school
  • The number of trained ESL teachers
  • The family support and the English language level of parents
  • The availability of resources and instructional space

(Alberta Education, 2007)

 Factors to Facilitate Students' Language Learning

    Teachers and other staff in the school are responsible to ensure that ESL students acquire the necessary skills to communicate in English. Here are some factors to facilitate students' learning:

  • Language should be used in a natural way in realistic contexts
  • Provide many opportunities and activities that integrate the skills of listening, reading, speaking, and writing
  • Allow opportunities to acquire new vocabulary and practice conversing with other English speaking peers on a daily basis

  • Resources for learning are always available and related to other curriculum areas

  • Inform the students that mistakes are acceptable and necessary for the learning process
  • Ensure that the purpose of oral, written, and reading tasks are clear to the students
  • Give time for students to acquire the language
  • Allow students to communicate only when they are ready and not pressure them to speak English

(Ministry of Education, English as a Second Language and English Literacy Development, 2001)