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ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL)

English as a Second Language: Statement of Purpose

The South Plainfield School District’s English as a Second Language Program (ESL) in provides
assistance to students who are learning to speak English. The goal of the program is to develop
proficiency in listening, reading and writing English. Students whose native language is not English are
given the WIDA ACCESS FOR ELL’s upon entering the district. They are then placed in the appropriate
level of language arts (ESL 1, 2, or 3) according to their proficiency in English.

ESL students are given an annual New Jersey, state-mandated test in order to measure their progress
in acquiring English. Those who score above the Standard Score Cut Points, and satisfy multiple criteria
indicating readiness, may exit the ESL Program.

The instructional program at South Plainfield High School provides students with the opportunity to meet
these requirements and helps them adjust to the social demands of American society.

Credits
Grade
Course #
Course Name
001 Language Arts Beginner 9-12 5

This course is intended for those students whose native language is other than English and who are non-
English speaking. The course is designed to introduce English skills through a fourfold language
approach: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. You will begin to acquire a command of grammar,
pronunciation, and vocabulary. The course also orients you to the new culture while you are acquiring
the basic mechanical skills of the English language.

Grade
Course Name
Course #
Credits
002 Language Arts Intermediate 9-12 5

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Language Arts Beginner and/or placement test.
This course is intended for those students whose native language is other than English and whose
knowledge of English are at an intermediate level. The course will continue to emphasize and further
develop the basic skills of listening speaking, reading, writing with an emphasis on English pronunciation.
You will also study the cultures and life styles of Americans.

Grade
Course #
Credits
Course Name
003 Language Arts Advanced 9-12 5

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Language Arts Intermediate and/or placement test.
This course is intended for those students whose native language is other than English and whose
knowledge of English are at an advanced level. The program is designed to improve the English skills
of listening, speaking, reading, and writing to a level where you can achieve success in mainstreamed
classes. Citizenship, career information, and advanced vocabulary are an integral part of the program.

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