Each of the five language proficiency standards is divided into the language domains of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. While interaction naturally occurs between and among language domains, in this document, they are maintained as separate constructs as one way of thinking about curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
Listening
Listening is an active skill. By highlighting an assortment of listening tasks across standards, the need to involve students in active listening and purposeful listening skills development becomes clear.
Speaking
English language learners engage in oral communication in a variety of situations for a variety of purposes and in a wide spectrum of settings. As part of oral communication, students are constantly using language in meaningful interaction with others.
Reading
English language learners process, interpret, and evaluate written language, symbols, and text with understanding and fluency. Learning to read in a second language may be enhanced or hindered by students’ level of literacy in their native language. Students who have a strong foundation in reading in their first language bring with them skills that can be readily transferred in the process of learning to read in English.
Writing
English language learners use written communication for a variety of purposes and audiences. Writing can be used to express meaning through drawing, symbols, or text. English language learners may come with writing styles influenced by their home cultures.
http://www.tesol.org/s_tesol/sec_document.asp?CID=281&DID=13323
In ESL class we will continue to work on reading and writing in English. However, I will encourage the students read in their mother-tongue and give them some time in class to find and peruse through resources during ESL class to model the above practice high lighted in blue. Please encourage your child to read and reflect at home in their mother-tongue.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Mrs. Poole
