English as a Second Language K-8

A Guide to Understanding:

	uses English for survival purposes
	has developed literacy and academic skills in the first language if your child has started school in another country
	may be very quiet in class for the first few months
	begins to understand simple directions
	is able to communicate basic needs and ideas over a period of time
	begins to read simple English
	begins to write simple sentences with extra help from the teacher

How long does it take?

	1-2 years for everyday communication in English
	5-8 years for language and skills needed for success in school subjects

Stage 2 - High Beginner in English

	begins to respond correctly to questions and instructions with extra help from the teacher
	participates in conversations using simple English in familiar situations
	begins to speak fluently in simple sentences
	reads different materials with familiar vocabulary
	comprehends simple, familiar stories
	begins to write simple paragraphs with extra help from the teacher
	participates in classroom activities with extra help from the teacher but cannot fully participate in all subject areas

Stage 3 - Intermediate in English

	understands main idea and information from oral text with extra help from the teacher
	starts and maintains fluent conversations
	needs extra help from the teacher with academic vocabulary
	reads many different materials for main idea but needs extra help from the teacher with written comprehension activities
	attempts to write longer, more complex stories but has spelling and grammatical errors
	participates in all subject areas but continues to need extra help from the teacher with class activities, projects, book reports, and speeches

Stage 4 - Advanced in English

	takes all subjects in the grade level classroom
	understands spoken English in social and academic situations
	uses standard English for personal, social, and academic purposes like a student whose first language is English
	reads and understands new stories with extra help from the teacher
	writes using correct spelling and grammar most of the time
	may require extra help for editing projects and speeches

First Language SupportA strong knowledge of your first language will help your child to:

	think more clearly
	learn English well
	feel confident

The following suggestions will help your child to be successful at school:

	participate in International Languages Program on Saturdays
	speak your first language at home
		talk and ask questions about your child’s school day, homework, etc.
		talk about your own day
		talk about what your child watches on television
	read regularly to and with your child in your language and in English
	discover your child’s talent and help him/her develop that talent
	keep a variety of reading material at home in your language as well as English