Design Technology - International School of Duesseldorf

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL)
Philosophy
We believe that language is essential to most human activities. It is the principal
means by which we experience, create and interpret the changing world in which we
live. It is the way we think and communicate.
We believe language acquisition grows incrementally through a constant and natural
interaction of comprehensible input and the four skills: listening, speaking, reading
and writing. The language curriculum recognizes and respects the varied interests,
abilities, needs and diverse cultural backgrounds of our students. It presents a
progressive course of study, which gives insight into structures and functions of the
language and emphasizes communication.
We believe that all second language students whose language level is insufficient to
cope with a full curriculum in English should be offered ESL classes or in-class
support appropriate to their age and level to enable them to succeed in the
mainstream. We believe that the most efficient way to achieve this is by immersing
the students in an authentic language environment which is comprehensible, yet
challenging, where specific language is targeted for instruction, where acquired
language is used in meaningful tasks and where an attempt is made to mirror grade
level content and teaching styles.
Finally, we believe that each student should be challenged through the
implementation of a variety of instructional methods and strategies in a positive
environment, which is conducive to further learning. It is our conviction that this
approach will foster an atmosphere of tolerance and respect for the ideas of others
and increase the individual’s awareness of self-identity.
Grades 6 - 10
ESL classes take place during the mainstream English and humanities periods and
students are taught in grade-level groups. During all other subjects the ESL students
participate in mainstream classes. The ESL classes aim to develop the skills and
attitudes required for effective communication and study; reading writing, listening
and speaking. To develop an appreciation, knowledge and understanding of literature
and language, a variety of teaching strategies, instructional materials, flexible
assignments and additional services are used as needed. The ESL department
understands that students learn in different ways and at different speeds, therefore
we aim to provide support and encouragement for each student on their way to full
proficiency.
During ESL classes the students study both English and humanities using a variety
of texts and materials. The ESL teachers are in constant close communication with
their mainstream colleagues on the content and requirements of the mainstream
classes. The literature read in ESL classes is chosen to reflect the topics covered by
the mainstream classes. The content of the humanities mainstream classes is also
followed as far as is linguistically possible by the ESL class to ease the transition
from ESL to the mainstream class. Whenever possible the mainstream and ESL
classes work together on assignments and projects.
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