Who are English Language Learners?

English as a Second Language (ESL) learners are those whose primary language is one other than English, and who may therefore require additional services in order to develop their potential within the BC school system. They could include recent immigrants to Canada or students on an international exchange program.

The District has identified five levels of language proficiency, which cover four domains: oral, listening, reading, and writing. The five levels are:

• Level 1 - New to English
• Level 2 - Early Aquisition
• Level 3 - Becoming Familiar
• Level 4 - Becoming Competent
• Level 5 - Becoming Fluent

As students progress through the levels of language proficiency, and across all four domains, their academic needs and support also change.

What services are available to ESL students at Clayburn Middle?

Clayburn Middle's ESL teacher offers a variety of services to students requiring ESL support. These services include the option of pull-out ESL classes, a drop-in ESL help center, and one-to-one consultation. ESL support is offered to students based on their individual needs as assessed by the ESL teacher and the student's classroom teacher. Students are assessed regularly to ensure they receive the support and guidance they require for academic success.

ESL instruction at Clayburn is based on the District ESL Program, which recommends students at the lowest level of language proficiency receive the most support. As students progress from Level 1 to Level 5, their focus for instruction shifts from building basic survival and social language to proficiency in grade-level academic language. A variety of learning strategies and materials are used to help students acquire a deeper understanding of the English language as well as Canadian culture.

ESL Contacts:

ESL Teacher: Mr. Mike Haire This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Ph: 604-504-7007 ext. 148

District ESL Helping Teacher: Ms. Julie Wright This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Ph: 604-853-2637

Multicultural Worker: Mr. Jeven Randhawa This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Ph: 604-851-4582