EAL
English as an additional language (EAL) refers to pupils whose first language is not English. Some pupils may already be fluent in several other languages and all come from diverse linguistic, cultural and educational backgrounds. They may be at different stages of English language acquisition but even those at the same stage will have different backgrounds and needs. For example, they will have had different experiences of schooling overseas. Some will be literate in other languages and might already have developed concepts in other subjects, such as science and mathematics, through another language. There will be a range of abilities and needs.
At Denstone College we aim to help all pupils reach their full potential irrespective of their education to date.
The EAL Department exists to help pupils achieve the best of their ability in their curriculum subjects by supporting the development of their English language skills.
At Denstone, we offer a range of lesson schedules, which are dependent on each individual pupil’s ability, their timetable and their performance in other curriculum subjects. These take the form of small group classes of up to 8 pupils.
Initially, it may be recommended that a pupil replace one Modern Foreign Language with EAL lessons. However, we do try to keep the option of studying a Modern Foreign Language (other than English) open to our pupils.
Assessment on Entry
Shortly after starting at Denstone, EAL pupils will take the Oxford Online Placement Test, which gives an up-to-date measure of his or her receptive skills in English. This data will be used to inform all teachers of that pupil’s English ability and will be one factor in deciding which EAL lessons, if any, will be offered.
EAL Lessons
These lessons provide support leading up to each pupil’s English GCSE. If desired, a pupil may be prepared, and entered, for other external English exams, such as the Cambridge language exams.
Graduation from EAL Lessons
When a pupil is able to write in English at an ‘age-appropriate’ level, he or she may graduate from formal EAL lessons. This may happen at an assessment point, such as after the end of year exams, or at a mutually convenient point during the school year. The progress and wellbeing of these pupils will continue to be monitored by the EAL Coordinator. They will still be offered opportunities open to other EAL pupils, such as taking an external exam in their first language.
IELTS Preparation
Sixth Form pupils with ambitions to study at English-speaking universities may need to take the IELTS, which is an internationally recognised test of English ability. We can arrange for students to sit this examination externally and, where possible, offer guidance as to how to prepare.
External Exams in a Pupil’s First Language
Often, we are able to enter Fourth Form, Fifth Form or Sixth Form pupils for a GCSE or A-Level exam in (one of) their first language(s). This is not compulsory. We try to ensure such exams are taken at a time when they will not interfere with the taught exam courses that pupil is following.
EAL Drop-in Sessions
The EAL Coordinator is always keen to help students with homework and assignments when needed and students can arrange lunchtime and breaktime meetings as needed. This could be for checking work for grammatical errors, or for advice on structuring essays, for example.
Further Questions
If you have any further questions at this stage, please do not hesitate to contact the EAL Coordinator, Mrs Kathryn Watson, by email: kwatson@denstonecollege.net