English Language Learners

We have three different levels of service for students identified as English Learners. Entrance, placement, and exit from services is determined by teacher recommendation and the ACCESS for ELs test administered every February.

Level 1 (newcomer):

Students with beginning levels of proficiency are placed in a newcomer class (ELD 1) that provides intensive and direct instruction on the social and instructional language needed for academic success. This is a two-hour block of classes that is also accompanied by three elective classes in the student’s schedule that also help them to begin to acquire conversational English. An additional support hour is also recommended. Students receive elective credit for completion of ELD 1 classes.

Level 2 (intermediate proficiency):

Students with an intermediate proficiency are placed in at least one of the following sheltered classes. These courses allow students to develop their academic language skills while working towards the grade-level Minnesota content standards. Instructional strategies include teaching vocabulary, providing additional reading and writing supports, and using visual, auditory, and kinesthetic supports to deepen understanding of the language and content.

• Language of Humanities (ELA credit) • ELA 9/10 (ELA credit) • ELA 11 (ELA credit) • Human Geography/Civics (Social Studies credit) • US History (Social Studies credit)

Level 3 (advanced proficiency):

Students with an advanced proficiency in the English language are enrolled in a support hour where they receive support in organizing and mastering course work for other classes. Students also have opportunities to engage in language lessons that help them to be successful in their other classes. Elective credit is given for participating in the language lessons and other coursework.