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About Bil/ESL
• What is Bilingual Education?
Bilingual Education is an instructional program that is designed to offer the Limited English Proficient (LEP) student an opportunity to become competent in the comprehension, speaking, reading and writing of the English language. Being taught in their native language with emphasis in the primary grades can assure success in these areas. Concepts learned in the native language can then be transferred into the English language at a time when the student is able to make that transition. Bilingualism is a process that takes place over time. It is crucial that the transition be gradual in order to ensure a competent English speaker with high level thinking skills. The goal is to shift the students from the home language or minority language to an all English curriculum and for them to experience success. This means providing instruction for students in their home language so that they are on grade level academically while acquiring oral English language skills. This program is called the Transitional Bilingual Model. The Transitional Bilingual Model is an instructional process. Every individual student learns at a different pace therefore, instructional levels are flexible and should adapt to his or her academic needs. The belief that a life-long learner is the responsibility of all stakeholders is a substantial assumption. The Transitional Bilingual Model is the most expedient when looking at the learning process of a second language. If implemented consistently and accordingly it will be effective in achieving the goals set for LEP student, which is to be a bilingual, biliterate and well rounded individual. Note: The Waller ISD Bilingual Education Program is offered for grades PK to 6th.
What is English as a second language? English as a Second Language (ESL) is a systematic approach using a variety of teaching strategies to accommodate the formal and complete acquisition of the English language. In order to be successful in this type of setting a student must have some basic knowledge and skills of the oral English language. Throughout every subject area the emphasis is placed on vocabulary. This enables the student to transition concepts into the proper terms in all aspects of the English usage. The goal of the ESL program is to enable learners to become competent in the comprehension, speaking, reading and writing of the English language through the integrated use of second language methodology. In an ESL classroom all instruction is conducted in English. Although it is beneficial for the teacher to speak another language, it is not necessary in order to be successful in an ESL classroom. Consideration should be placed on the diversity and unique differences among students. It is important that the teacher values and understands the culture and realizes that language is closely affiliated with culture.
Advantages of bilingual education The basic objective for the Limited English Proficient (LEP) student is to learn English and still maintain the same grade level as native English speaking students. The purpose of bilingual education is to use the student's native language to teach academic content while simultaneously providing additional English language. The program provides instruction of subject areas in the student's native language so that student will feel comfortable, self confident and capable of learning. The goal is to provide equal access and excellence in learning for all students. The concepts and expectations are the same. All curriculums are taught and introduced with the same high quality and expectations. Waller Independent School District has adopted a Transitional Bilingual Program model. This program allows LEP students to receive native language instruction for concept development while acquiring English. English instruction will increase annually until the student is eligible to exit into the all English curriculum. The ESL program is offered from Pre-K through 12th. The levels of proficiency determine the amount of ESL instruction. The following benefits of bilingual education become apparent:
Questions and Answers to Common Concerns What are the components for bilingual/ESL education?
What is the criterion for exiting the program?
How is the program funded?
What should be the instructional focus?
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