Program Models
MCPS uses a content-based ELL approach (Crandall) in elementary, intermediate, middle and high school with certain service delivery types. Content-based ESOL is an approach to teaching ESOL which makes use of instructional materials, learning tasks, and classroom techniques from academic content areas as the vehicle for developing language, content, and cognitive skills. English is used as the medium of instruction.
Elementary ESOL services consist of direct language development instruction delivered by a certified ESOL teacher. The amount of instructional time depends on the grade level and proficiency score of the ESOL student. Ancillary materials may be used as appropriate to enhance language acquisition. The following service delivery types are used in elementary school: pull-out or in-class (inclusion) support.
Intermediate ESOL services consist of direct language development instruction delivered by an ESOL teacher. The amount of instructional time depends on the grade level and proficiency score of the ESOL student. Ancillary materials may be used as appropriate to enhance language acquisition. The following service delivery types are used in the intermediate school: pull-out, inclusion/in-class support, resource classes and sheltered instruction.
Middle school ESOL services consist of several service delivery options dependent on language level. Lower level ESOL students are in a Newcomer program, while higher level ESOL students are placed in mainstream classes as soon as they are able to be successful with ESOL support. The following service delivery types are used in middle school: pull-out, inclusion/in-class support, ESOL content courses, resource classes, newcomer classes and sheltered instruction.
High school ESOL services consist of newcomer/introductory classes for newcomers and beginning level students, sheltered ESOL English, science, social studies and math classes, and resource classes.