English as a Second Language

We support students with different English levels and help them to become proficient in the English language.

The English as a Second Language (ESL) Program is made available to students who have had limited experience studying in a school that uses English as the language of instruction and assessment. It is recommended for students with less than two years exposure to English language instruction.

The ESL Program focuses on the four areas of language acquisition for fluency and literacy:

Listening
Speaking
Reading
Writing

All ESL students are assessed using a variety of tools to determine their stages of development in these areas. All students in the Grades 1 to 8 ESL Program are designated into either a Level 1 or Level 2 class. The guideline for determining a students’ stage of development is based on Ontario Ministry of Education “STEP” Document criteria.

Visit our ESL classroom with Ms. Kung

Elementary Program

The Elementary ESL Program implements a pull out model for Grades 1 to 6 with two levels. Students are assessed in terms of their current level of English proficiency and placed accordingly. Our ESL teachers work with students on reading, writing, listening and speaking and support students to become proficient in all areas.

Students have ten 40-minute periods per week of ESL support. Once the students have achieved a proficient level, they will exit the ESL Program and join the homeroom core English class.

Secondary Program

The Secondary ESL Program is available to all students requiring additional language support. Students are assessed in terms of their current level of English proficiency and placed accordingly. Our ESL teachers work with students on reading, writing, listening and speaking and support students to become proficient in all areas. Students in Grades 7 and 8 have eight 40-minute periods per week of ESL support. Once the students have achieved a proficient level, they will exit the ESL Program and join the homeroom core English class.

In Grades 9 through 12, there is a 4-level credit course model. After completing an assessment, students are placed in the appropriate ESL class. Students will be placed in one of the four level courses based on the results of the language assessment. Students can apply these courses to their compulsory list of English requirements (maximum 3). Once completing the final level of ESL, students are placed in the core English program.

What our community says

“Seeing my little man looking forward to going to school every day proves that DSC is the right choice for our family. The class sizes are effective in enabling children to build a sense of community yet allowing teachers to observe the individuality of each kid. School staff are attentive and responsive. We want a school with a goal of preparing kids not only academically but also socially competent for the fast changing world. DSC delivers that by creating an inclusive & nurturing learning environment which makes the lifelong learning journey enjoyable.”

Mrs. Chau