ESOL

What is ELL?

English Language Learner (ELL) is a program of English language and cultural instruction for students whose home or native language is not English. Students also receive support in academic areas through ELL. The
Governor Wentworth Regional School District’s ELL program follows the New Hampshire state standards for curriculum, instruction, and assessment.

ELL students and their families are encouraged to maintain their native language and culture in addition to
English. Students and families are invited to share their languages and cultures with classes.

The goals of the program are for students to be able to:

 Learn all of their school sub-
jects in English;

 Succeed socially and academ-
ically in school;

 Meet state academic content
standards;

How are students selected for ELL services?

The parent/guardian(s),  classroom teacher, and ELL teacher form a team and make decisions together about a student’s ELL placement and services. The guidance counselor is also a part of this team at the high
school level.

How do ELL teachers teach?

They collaborate with regular
classroom teachers to provide
appropriate curriculum, instruction and assessment (supporting content with modifications, if necessary).

They use a variety of methods to
make sure students understand
what they are being taught.
They arrange for “peer buddies”
to help whenever possible.

They work with students one-on-
one or in small groups.

They maintain close communication with ELL students’ families, arranging for translators if necessary.

Services are provided in the
classroom with students’ native English-speaking peers, or in separate areas of the school building as needed.

What do ELL students learn?

The skills of listening, speaking,
reading and writing English

The vocabulary and skills required to master the same core subjects of math, science, social studies, language arts and unified arts as other students in their classrooms

English language skills necessary for appropriate social and class-
room behavior

Aspects of American culture

“Survival” English (for entering ELL students)

Specific learning strategies and
study skills

How are students’ skills measured?

Students who indicate the influence of a language other than English at registration are tested for English language skills to decide if ELL services are necessary. The tests are nationally-normed and appropriate for a student’s age, grade, and approximate level of
English.

In addition, ELL students take a standardized test each year to measure progress.