English Language Learning
English Language Learning (ELL) at Â鶹¹ÙÍø supports ELL students at a variety of English proficiency levels, including 1) the introduction of basic structures and vocabulary of the English language through the skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening 2) the acquisition of fluency skills and development of their academic language proficiency 3) the practice of critical thinking and the art of persuasion. The ELL department aims to curate fluent English speaking students and prepare them for higher education in English instruction.
Courses
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ELL Foundations 1, 2, and 3 courses are designed for students with limited to basic English language proficiency. These courses help students learn decoding strategies for identifying unknown words, develop and strengthen English grammar and mechanics, develop reading and listening strategies and comprehension, and establish and assess their writing skills to prepare them for future English-related courses.
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ELL Writing I and II courses are designed to facilitate students' progressively learning more advanced strategies for analyzing and defining unknown words and chunks of text, leading to greater reading comprehension. Students become more confident and independent writers and improve their analytical writing proficiency. Additionally, students progress in their oral proficiency, including vocabulary acquisition and language control, through various conversational activities.
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Socratic Seminar focuses on the Socratic Method and the art of persuasion in writing and speaking. Students have the opportunity to explore different texts and media and engage in a variety of inquiry-based dialogues.
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This course focuses on the Socratic Method and the art of persuasion in writing and speaking. Students will explore different texts and media as they explore the art of persuasion and the value of open and thoughtful discussion based on the Socratic Method. This course incorporates topic/issue-based research, critical thinking, discussion skills, and learning the art of persuasive writing. Part of this course includes an English Language Arts unit created by English language educators at Stanford University (link below), and we’ve adapted it for students in grades 9-12.