English as a Second Language (ESL) Program
At Alawa School, we have a significant number of students for whom English is not their first language.
Students learning a second language learn english very differently from their first language.
It is important to recognise that they have existing language skills, social and cultural knowledge in their first language. "Research indicates that the student's level of language competence in his or her first language influences the rate of second language learning." (Northern Territory Curriculum Framework)
The ESL program recognises the need to:
- give positive support to students to develop skills and confidence
- focus on specific language skills with explicit teaching
- engage students in oral and written activities in the classroom to practise skills
- provide extra time and support for students to complete English tasks
- develop student's skills in learning-how-to-learn.
The Busy Beehive
Alawa School has set up an ESL support room called “The Busy Beehive.” It caters for individual or small group teaching and learning, in a safe and happy environment. Students are encouraged to have a go, and to have fun, with games, activities, and specific tasks, designed by the ESL Teacher to further improve their English skills.
The ESL program is an integral part of every classroom program at Alawa School.
