Supporting English Language Learners in Grades 1 to 8

Orientation is not a one-time event for newcomer families. As differences
between the school in the home country and Ontario become apparent, new
questions may arise. Parents may also need support in gaining awareness of
the complex nature of learning the language of instruction at the same time as
their children are learning the curriculum. They need to become aware of how
long it takes students to acquire English for everyday and academic purposes.
They also need to understand the goals of the ESL and ELD programs, the
organization of the programs at the school, and the approaches to instruction
and assessment.
ESL and ELD instruction supports student learning in a variety of ways:
••
learning the language of instruction;
••
integrating academic language and literacy skills in all subjects;
••
developing concepts, learning skills, and critical-thinking skills;
••
using information technology effectively;
••
helping students to become active learners, who take responsibility for their own learning
and who participate fully in their classes;
••
using information technology effectively.
Approaches to instruction and assessment that may be different from those of an ELL’s
home country include:
••
the importance of oral language as a basis for learning and literacy (e.g., purposeful/
accountable talk);
••
the interactive nature of the Ontario classroom (e.g., working with peer partners and in
small groups, teacher-student conferences);
••
the wide range of instructional strategies involving a variety of learning styles;
••
the focus on process (with attention to students’ thoughts, reflection, and personal
application of new learning), as well as product;
••
ongoing assessment used for different purposes – assessment for learning, as learning,
and of learning.
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Supporting English Language Learners in Grades 1 to 8