ESL

Independent Studies in English

Independent Studies in English is a state-approved credit for graduation designed to help students improve in all areas of English language acquisition: reading, vocabulary, writing, speaking and listening – skills that benefit students in all classes. Areas of study:

• Language—Students review basic English sentence elements and structure, practice with sentence patterns and verb forms for expressing a variety of time situations.
• Reading—Reading is done silently for comprehension and aloud for pronunciation and inflection practice. Reading helps students increase vocabulary through context clues. Writing Writing skills are developed with a variety of writing assignments to practice description, spatial organization, narrative, comparison and contrast, and supporting an opinion.

Sheltered English 3

Sheltered English III is a state credit course for graduation which includes the study of major works of American literature such as poetry, short stories, essays, autobiography, drama and novels. Students are expected to show competency in the same skills and knowledge as those required in the non-sheltered English III classes. Areas of study:

• American literature selections
• Literary elements
• Famous American authors
• Vocabulary development including a study of root words
• Compositions including paragraphs and essays about literature

Sheltered English 4

Sheltered English 4 will help students improve their reading skills and vocabulary knowledge. Students will develop the skills needed to read and understand a variety of texts. They will also learn techniques and strategies to better understand new vocabulary. Students will work with simplified English writing of texts such as Macbeth, The Canterbury Tales and Beowulf. They will also be exposed to full versions of literary novels that reflect the standards found in the English 4 curriculum.

Creative Writing

Creative Writing - The study of Creative Writing allows high school students to improve their writing skills in English, their second language. All students are expected to demonstrate an understanding of the writing process, effectively applying the conventions of usage and the mechanics of written English. Students will also improve their English levels in reading, speaking, listening comprehension along with their writing skills. Materials are adapted to the reading level of the ESL student. Students will be Limited English Proficient and on a beginning level.

Practical Writing

Practical Writing is a state approved course for students who have acquired a moderate level of English proficiency. The course is designed to continue development of listening and speaking skills along with increasing attention to development of reading and writing skills. Emphasis is placed on reading comprehension and writing English sentences as well as increasing vocabulary and oral expression. Areas of study:

• Reading strategies with a variety of literature including non-fiction, short stories, plays, novels, songs, and poetry
• Literary elements: spelling and grammar vocabulary development, writing using descriptive, narrative, expository, and persuasive styles