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Evaluation:
All English as a Second Language students including International students are given a test in order to assess if they require direct support in one of the ESL classes or in the monitor program. In other words, what is their level of comprehension, speaking, reading and writing? Most students require direct support in one of the three levels of ESL classes. For some students, it is more appropriate to be in the monitor program where they drop-in after school on Thursday in room 409 at 2:30. In rare cases, students can be directly integrated in regular English classes if their test scores demonstrate an appropriate level.
In addition, students are tested at the end of each semester in order to monitor their progress and to evaluate what should be their next level ESL class or to be completely integrated into the regular program.
ESL Classes:
Three levels of ESL classes, namely Reception, Intermediate or Advanced/Transitional are usually offered. Students work on developing different language skills with a focus on reading, writing and basic Canadian culture, history and geography. We are also expanding the mini-computer lab so students can work at their own pace using ESL software such as Rosetta Stone and others. Students also receive help from peer tutors in other subjects.
Students spend one block in the ESL program and are integrated into other classrooms depending on their level of language comprehension and the requirements they need to graduate. It is important to remember that learning a Second Language is a long process. Research has concluded that a student needs an average of 3 to 5 years to be able to function. There will be more time needed in order for the student to be at the same level of his/her peers. Of course, individual differences such as motivation, age, personality, work habits, etc. will have an impact on the time needed.
Field trips have also been organized to different locations such as the Sto-Lo Longhouse, Fort Langley, Chinatown, Storyeum, etc.
During a June assembly, an ESL student in each grade level will receive the Hawk Award that recognizes a student who has made consistent efforts and has showed results in learning the language.
Assistance:
In addition to in-class assistance, ESL students can benefit from the following help.
1. ESL students get help from the library personnel Mrs. Dick and Mrs. Tavener, the teacher librarian. Students are provided with help in learning how to use the computer and research skills. There are also after school peer tutors if students request them from Mrs. Tavener.
2. Students can also get in touch with Jeven Randhawa at 604-859-4891 who can translate for Punjabi speaking parents or others who need to communicate with parents.
3. Mrs. Boychuck, through community services, and the sponsor teachers namely Ms. Lam, Ms. Tavener and Mrs. Lipinski, organize the Youth Buddy Program/Multicultural Club where ESL students and volunteers are matched. Every Wednesday at lunch, they get together to participate in different activities. For more information, contact Mrs. Lipinski.
4. After ESL students graduate, they can to go to the English for Living and Working at Mouat where they receive for free a 6 week course on how to find work. For more info go to the HRDC site by going back to the home page.
5. There are also two David C. Lam scholarships of $2500 that recognize an ESL student graduating from a B.C. secondary school who has combined academic competence with school or community involvement, and wishes to continue his/her education at a post-secondary school. Visit their website at www.bcteal.org and click on T.C.F. Awards and David Lam or contact Mrs. Lipinski. Application deadline is January 31st.
6. Here are a few ESL sites that students can access from home, the school or public library:
www.eslcafe.com (click on quizzes)
www.yourdictionary.com
www.englishpage.com (click on verb tenses)
www.manythings.org
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