English Language Support (ELL)


 

Students who meet the requirements for admission to the ISSE, but who have limited proficiency in English, will be enrolled as ELL (English Language Learner) students. Admission is by interview followed by an initial assessment.

The ELL programme uses content-based learning and is designed to equip students with the English language skills that they will need in the Middle Years Programme. As well as giving a sound basis for communicative skills, the ELL programme aims to help a student’s understanding of the process of language learning and to encourage a positive attitude towards other languages and cultures.

The main features of the ELL programme are:

  • Students are placed in their MYP year group and follow a full 35-hour timetable. They also enter one of the three levels of the ELL Programme – beginner, intermediate or advanced.
  • The student’s subject package varies according to the level of proficiency in English at entry to the ISSE. Students at beginner level are withdrawn from a larger number of mainstream lessons than those at advanced level.
  • The ELL lesson programme consists of specialised lessons in English Language, Science and the Humanities.
  • The addition of mainstream subjects to a student’s package takes place after assessment and discussion at report meetings.
  • ELL support can last for up to 3 years.

 ELL Coordinator
Ms R. Evans

SUMMARY OF A TYPICAL PROGRESSION OF A BEGINNER-LEVEL

 LEVEL

 WITHDRAWN FROM

 MAINSTREAM LESSONS to
BE FOLLOWED

ELL
PROGRAMME

DURATION

 

Beginner

  • English Lang. A
  • Language B
  • History
  • Geography
  • Science
  • Mathematics
  • Visual Arts
  • Performing Arts
  • Physical Education
  • Technology
  • Tutor Group
  • ELL Language
    incorporating History and Geography
  • ELL Science

  

Up to 12 months

 

Intermediate
  • English Lang. A
  • Language B
  • History
  • adds Science
  • adds Geography
  • ELL Language

 

Up to 18 months

 Advanced

  • Language B
  • adds History
  • adds English Language A
  • ELL Language

 

 Up to 24 months

 ELL support
for those students
that require further help
  • Language B
  •  all except Language B
  • focus on improving study skills, reading
    techniques and writing skills
Up to 36 months