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English for Speakers of other Languages (ESOL)
An Overview of the SAS English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Program
Singapore American School (SAS) provides an option for students whose first language is not English. The program is designed to help those students to attain proficiency in reading, writing, speaking and listening in English and to gain experience with a Western style of education before being fully immersed in mainstream English and social studies classes.
High School ESOL
ADMISSION PROCESS
When a student applies to the High School at SAS, his or her application and prior schools' transcripts are first reviewed by the Admissions Director. If the student's primary language of study is not English, the student’s records are also reviewed by counselors and the High School Principal.
In order to be admitted, the student must:
1. Submit records from the last three years of school, translated into English
2. Have a C or better grade point average
3. Pass an English proficiency entrance test
There is an additional programming fee for students receiving ESOL services.
ENTRANCE - PLACEMENT TESTING
The entrance test is given three times each year in May, August and December. New ESOL students may enter SAS High School only at the start of a semester in August or January.
The entrance test is the measure used to determine whether the student is proficient enough in English to be able to handle the rigorous course of study at SAS. If the student meets the entrance level, he or she will be accepted into the school, provided there is space available. The test is also used to establish placement into classes.
THE ESOL TEST
The ESOL entrance test has several components. Most of the test is done on the computer. The test itself is divided into four main parts:
1. Language, reading comprehension, and word usage
2. Listening skills
3. Essay writing
4. An oral interview
In addition, a mathematics teacher and a science teacher interview the student to decide, if the student is accepted, what the optimal course placement would be in those two areas. This interview is not a test, but rather a placement tool.
A test fee of S$200 is charged the first time a student takes the test. A retest is $75. A student may take the test a maximum of three times.
PLACEMENT POSSIBILITIES
If the student’s scores are at least at entrance level, he or she will be accepted to the school if space is available. Then the ESOL Department will place the student in certain classes depending on his or her scores and background. There are three possibilities:
1. A student may be accepted into the English - ESOL program (students in Grades 9 and 10)
2. A student may be accepted into the English II - ESOL program (students in Grades 10-11)
3. A student may be accepted into all mainstream classes
OPTION 1
If a student is accepted and placed into English - ESOL, he or she will take three ESOL classes: English Literature, English Writing, and Global Cultures. He or she will also be scheduled into a math class, a science class and other electives of his choice. These non-ESOL classes are mainstream classes. A student may stay in the ESOL program for up to two years, but the Global Cultures class may be taken for only one year. Most often, an English - ESOL student will move up to English II the following year.
OPTION 2
If a grade 10 student's English is such that he or she can succeed at a level higher than English - ESOL, the student may be placed into English II - ESOL. He or she will take English II Literature, English II Writing, and, if new to SAS, Global Cultures.
If the student enters English II as a Grade 10 student, he or she may stay up to two years in this program. If, however, the student enters in Grade 11, he or she may stay only one year. As a result, a student entering SAS in grade 11 must have a high enough score on the entrance test to move into English II and exit in one year.
OPTION 3
A student who scores exit level on the entrance test will be placed into all mainstream classes. Depending on the student’s writing skills, he or she may be required to take Writing Workshop in addition to regular English.
CREDITS
As long as a student is in ESOL classes, the ESOL Literature classes count towards his or her English requirements. ESOL Writing classes count as elective credits and the Global Cultures class counts as a social studies credit.
MOVING THROUGH THE PROGRAM
Each semester, the ESOL students are tested to check their level of proficiency in English. As their scores rise, they move from one level to another and then to mainstream classes. The minimum time in any one class is one full semester. The maximum time is two years. However, in order to graduate from SAS, every student is required to take at least one full year of mainstream English. Thus, there are no grade 12 students in the ESOL program.
GRADE PLACEMENT
The grade at which a student enters SAS as an ESOL student is determined by the Admissions Office in cooperation with the High School Principal and the Counseling Office. Sometimes a student's credits or entrance test scores are such that a student is advised to repeat a grade in order to enter SAS. This is done for the benefit of the student. If, for example, a student who is applying for entry into Grade 11 does not meet the entrance requirements that would guarantee his or her successful completion of the program in two years, he or she may be asked to enter in Grade 10. The student must then make a decision to enter SAS in Grade 10 or to seek educational options elsewhere.
The curriculum at SAS is challenging, and it is even more so for students who are still learning English. Recommendations to parents and applicants are based on what faculty, administrators and counselors feel is best for the student. We strive for success for all students at SAS.
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Middle School ESOL
ADMISSION PROCESS
When a student applies to the Middle School at SAS, his or her application and prior schools' transcripts are first reviewed by the Admissions Director, Middle School Principal and counselors.
If the student's primary language of study is not English, in order to be admitted the student must:
4. Submit records from the last three years of school, translated into English.
5. Have a C or better grade point average.
6. Pass an English proficiency entrance test.
There is an additional programming fee for students receiving ESOL services.
ENTRANCE - PLACEMENT TESTING
The entrance test is given three times each year in May, August and December.
The entrance test is the measure used to determine whether the student is proficient enough in English to be able to handle the rigorous course of study at SAS. If the student meets the entrance level, he or she will be accepted into the school, providing there is space available. Formal acceptance is based upon school enrollment and ESOL vacancies.
THE ESOL TEST
The ESOL entrance test has several components. The test itself is divided into four main parts:
1. Language, reading comprehension, and word usage
2. Listening skills
3. Essay writing
4. Oral proficiency
PLACEMENT POSSIBILITIES
If the student’s scores are at least at entrance level, he or she will be accepted to the school if space is available.
OPTION 1
If a student is accepted and placed into ESOL, he or she will be placed at grade level in a mainstream homeroom and Math and Science class. 6th grade students will attend ESOL during the regular Reading Language Arts (RLA). 7th and 8th grade students will have both Social Studies and RLA in ESOL classes. There, the student will receive instruction in a smaller, more supportive class setting.
OPTION 2
If a student places at Exit Level criteria, that student will be placed at his or her grade level in mainstream classes including Reading Language Arts (RLA) and Social Studies.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Program is designed to meet the needs of students who demonstrate limited proficiency in English and meet entrance requirements where applicable. Students participate in developmental language learning experiences designed to enhance their ability to understand spoken English, express ideas in English, read with comprehension and write coherent sentences and paragraphs. Instruction also focuses on the development of vocabulary required for conversation and participation in core subjects. This is accomplished through inquiry based learning, journaling, field trips, shared reading, technology and hands on experiences. Students attend some mainstream classes, so that they can interact with teachers and peers and apply their newly acquired English language skills.
Middle School ESOL students are enrolled in a one to four semester program. The goal of this program is to develop, as rapidly as possible, the English language proficiency required for effective participation in regular classes. Generally the students require up to two years in the ESOL program. Some students are mainstreamed in less time.
COMMUNICATION
Close communication with parents and classroom teachers is a vital part of our program. Students are encouraged to speak English the entire school day and to make friends with English speaking students. Parents are kept informed through net classroom, progress reports and emails.
MOVING THROUGH THE PROGRAM
Each semester, the ESOL students are assessed to check their level of proficiency in English. If they meet the requirements they are moved into the mainstream classes for the following semester. Students may exit anytime from six months to two years after they begin the ESOL program.
GRADE PLACEMENT
The grade at which a student enters SAS as an ESOL student is determined by the Admissions Office in cooperation with the Middle School Principal and the Guidance Office.
The curriculum at SAS is challenging, and it is even more so for students who are struggling with English. Faculty, administrators and counselors strive for success for all students at SAS.
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Intermediate School ESOL
Singapore American School (SAS) provides an option for students whose first language is not English. The program is designed to help those students to attain proficiency in reading, writing, speaking and listening in English, as well as to gain experience with a Western style of education, before being fully immersed into mainstream English classes.
ADMISSION PROCESS
When a student applies to the Intermediate School at SAS, his or her application and prior schools' transcripts are first reviewed by the Admissions Director. If the student's primary language of study is not English, Counselors and the Intermediate Principals also review the student’s records.
In order to be admitted, the student must:
1. Submit records from the last three years of school, translated into English
2. Pass an English proficiency entrance test
There is an additional programming fee for students receiving ESOL services.
ENTRANCE - PLACEMENT TESTING
The entrance test is administered to new applicants three times a year in May, August and December.
This entrance test is the measure used to determine whether the student is proficient enough in English to be able to handle the rigorous course of study at SAS. If the student meets the entrance level, he or she will be accepted into the school. The test is also used to establish placement.
THE ESOL TEST
The ESOL entrance test has several components. The test itself can be divided into three main parts:
1. Vocabulary, listening and speaking
2. Writing
3. Reading comprehension
CLASS PLACEMENT
Once it has been decided that the student’s scores are at least at entrance level, he or she will be formally accepted to the school if space is available. Formal acceptance is based upon school enrollment and ESOL vacancies. Based on assessment scores and after formal acceptance, students will then be placed into a mainstream class or placed into the ESOL Program.
If a student is accepted and placed into ESOL, he or she will be placed at grade level in a mainstream homeroom to be immersed in Social Studies, Math and Science classes. The student will be pulled out for 90 minutes per day during the regular Reading Language Arts (RLA) time, to attend ESOL. There, the student will receive instruction in a smaller, intensified English class.
If a student places at Exit Level criteria, that student will be placed at his or her level in a mainstream homeroom and will stay with that class for all subject areas including Reading Language Arts (RLA) classes.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students are enrolled in a one to four semester pullout program. The goal of this program is to develop, as rapidly as possible, the English language proficiency required for effective participation in regular classes. Generally the students require up to two years in the ESOL program. Some students are mainstreamed in less time. For others it may take a little longer than two years before they have acquired the reading, writing and speaking skills necessary to be successful in the regular program.
The Intermediate Program is designed to meet the needs of students who demonstrate limited proficiency in English and meet entrance requirements where applicable. Students participate in developmental language learning experiences designed to enhance their ability to understand spoken English, express ideas in English, read with comprehension and write coherent paragraphs. Instruction also focuses on the development of vocabulary required for conversation and participation in core subjects. This is accomplished through inquiry based learning, reader’s theater, journaling, field trips, shared reading, technology and hands on experience. Students attend mainstream classes in science, social studies and math, so that they can interact with teachers and peers and apply their newly acquired English language skills.
MOVING THROUGH THE PROGRAM
Each semester, the ESOL students are tested again to check their level of proficiency in English. Students may exit anytime from six months to two years after they begin the ESOL program.
EXIT CRITERIA
Exit criteria are based on multiple factors including test scores. Assessment scores are one component to be considered. To exit the ESOL program, students must score at the exit level on the test. As well, the agreement of the ESOL teacher and the classroom teacher on the student’s everyday performance and readiness are required. Each case is weighed carefully and then brought to the principals for review.
COMMUNICATION
Close communication with parents and classroom teachers is a vital part of our program. Students are encouraged to speak English the entire school day and to make friends with English speaking students. Parents are kept informed through monthly letters, progress reports and emails. They are given suggestions about the kinds of activities to plan with their children during their time together, which will facilitate English learning. Parents are invited for special projects and to participate in activities or watch public speaking performances a few times during the year. A daily diary goes home with the students each day so that the teacher and parent may experience an open communication flow.
The curriculum at SAS is challenging and it is even more so for students who are struggling with English. Faculty, administrators and counselors strive for the success of all students at SAS. Recommendations to parents and applicants are based on student needs.
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Primary School ESOL
Singapore American School (SAS) provides an option for students whose first language is not English. The program is designed to help those students to attain proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening in English, as well as to gain experience with a Western style of education, before being fully immersed in Reading and Language Arts instruction within the regular classroom.
FIRST AND SECOND GRADE
ADMISSION PROCESS
When a student applies to the Primary School at SAS, his or her application and prior schools' transcripts are first reviewed by the Admissions Director. If the student's primary language of study is not English, Counselors and the Primary Principal also review the student’s records.
Once it has been determined that a student may require support, he or she is referred to the ESOL Department for testing.
At the Primary School level, there is no required level of English proficiency for admittance; however there are a limited number of spaces available in the first and second grade program. Once those spaces are full, students will be placed on a waitlist.
There is an additional programming fee for students receiving ESL services.
ESOL PLACEMENT TESTING
The ESOL Placement Test is administered to new applicants whenever it is necessary throughout the school year. This entrance test is the measure used to determine whether the student will need ESOL support.
THE ESOL TEST
The ESOL test has several components:
1. Oral vocabulary, listening, and speaking
2. Grade appropriate writing skills
3. Grade appropriate reading and comprehension skills
The test is administered as a one-to-one individual situation.
CLASS PLACEMENT
Once students have completed testing, they are eligible for acceptance into SAS, provided there is space available. Formal acceptance is based upon school enrollment and vacancies.
OPTION 1
If a student is accepted into the program, he or she is placed at grade level in a regular homeroom for most of the school day. The student will attend ESOL for 90 minutes per day during the regular Reading Language Arts period. All other subjects are studied in the homeroom.
OPTION 2
If a student scores at Exit Level criteria, he or she is not placed in the ESOL program. The student will be placed at his or her grade level in a regular homeroom, and will stay with the class for all subject areas.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Primary School English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students are enrolled in a partial pullout program. The length of time in the program varies greatly from individual to individual. As the Primary School accepts complete beginners in English, some students require several years in the ESOL program.
THE INTENSIVE PROGRAM
The intensive ESOL program begins at first grade. It is designed to provide ESOL students with the English language proficiency and academic preparation necessary to integrate successfully into the mainstream classroom on a full-time basis. The daily pullout sessions are 90 minutes in length, and students follow an individualized program in a small group situation. Instruction focuses on experiences designed to enhance their ability to understand spoken English, express ideas in English, read with comprehension, and write with grade appropriate skills. Instruction also focuses on the development of vocabulary to support the other core subjects studied within the homeroom.
MOVING THROUGH THE PROGRAM
Each semester, the ESOL students are tested again to check their level of proficiency in English.
EXIT CRITERIA
Exit criteria are based upon multiple factors, including agreement of the ESOL and classroom teacher on the student’s everyday performance and readiness, and on the ESOL test results.
COMMUNICATION
Close communication with parents and classroom teachers is a vital part of our program. Students are encouraged to speak English the entire school day and to make friends with English speaking students.
Parents are kept informed through weekly letters, which describe current areas of study. Daily homework is assigned to further facilitate English language learning.
The curriculum at SAS is challenging and it is even more so for students who are learning English. Faculty, administrators and counselors strive for success for all students at SAS.
PRE-SCHOOL, PRE-KINDERGARDEN, AND KINDERGARTEN
The younger students in Pre-School, Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten are immersed in English within the regular class program. This facilitates the development of English skills through a natural acquisition process.
However, although kindergarten students are not officially enrolled in the ESOL program, the ESOL department is usually able to provide some limited ESOL support. The amount of time in the schedule available for Kindergarten ESOL can vary from year to year.
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