The ESL Programme at the Primary School focuses on the 4 language skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking) in a fun and dynamic way. The goal of the programme is to give students sufficient English to be able to access content and language within the mainstream classroom, by teaching them in small groups and providing targeted language instruction. The ESL staff use small group work, projects, drama, games, and a variety of written materials to practice skills and expose children to English in a pleasurable, focused environment.
While the focus is on language, class tasks seek to build up linguistic knowledge around a theme or content area. Most of our work with ESL students is out of the homeroom class (out-of class support) for students who are new to the language, but some inclusion teaching is also provided for students who are further along in English, but still requiring some support. The ESL specialist will work with the student in the homeroom, alongside the classroom teacher, to help the English language learner.
Because of the proven benefits of developing a strong mother tongue, LIS celebrates and aims to foster growth in all our students’ languages. English language learners are therefore encouraged to develop their mother tongue while improving their English proficiency. We are happy to meet with parents to discuss ways to help your child’s language development.
Please note: due to the confusion that ESL learners might have (for students whose mother tongue is not German), we reserve the right to refrain from providing GSL lessons until a B1* stage of English language development is reached. (*As per the Common European Reference.)