English Language Learners (ELL)
English Language Learner (ELL) is an educational approach which addresses the needs of English Language Learners (ELLs) through tutoring and classroom instruction in English rather than the student’s native language. Students may be pulled from their classrooms, in order to work individually or in small groups with an ESL teacher or tutor. For the remainder of the school day, students learn with their peers in a general education setting. ESL classes focus on language acquisition, English grammar, and promote natural communication activities (ie. free conversation, games, and discussions surrounding familiar topics). Reading and writing in English are practiced, as well as speaking and listening skills.
Students are identified for Talawanda’s ESL program based upon the results of the Idea Proficiency Test (IPT), which is administered to any student whose family indicates a second language on the Home Language Survey. If a child’s scores indicate moderate to advanced levels of English proficiency, students may be monitored through consultation with general education teachers. However, if a student scores in the low range on the IPT, additional support will be provided by the ESL teacher or tutor.
In addition to participating in state testing, all English Language Learners (ELLs) are required by law to be assessed in the spring in order to measure their progress regarding language acquisition. Talawanda students in grades K-12 are annually tested using the OELPA(Ohio English Language Proficiency Assessment).
Contact Information
Katie Slager
ELL Coordinator
513-273-3145
