English as a Second Language
Dufferin Peel Schools offer special programs for our newcomers from other countries, so they can learn Standard Canadian English and continue their education at the same time. Newcomers may begin their new educational careers with a visit to the Reception Centre, for advice on starting school and choosing courses.
Reception and Assessment Centre:
St. Veronica School
680 Nova Star Drive
Mississauga, Ontario
L5W 1C7
Tel: (905)361-2344
Fax: (905) 361-2345
ESL programs
ESL courses assist students whose first language is not English to learn the language of instruction. Most have received educational experiences in their own countries that have prepared them for success in the secondary school program. Depending on their previous experience with English, they may be placed in ESL level A, B, C, D or E. Students who entered the Dufferin Peel system before grade 9 will be assessed at their elementary schools. The home school will refer those arriving in Dufferin-Peel at the grade 9 level or higher, and who need language assessment to the appropriate reception centre.
ESL Level A, Open (Course Code: ESLAO)
This course builds on students’ previous education and language knowledge to introduce the English language and help students adjust to their new cultural environment. Students will develop the ability to use oral and written English for daily needs, acquire basic conversation skills and vocabulary, and use simple sentence patterns. Students will also acquire basic orientation information related to their needs as newcomers to Canada.
ESL Level B, Open (Course Code: ESLBO)
This course expands students’ essential English communication skills and cultural knowledge and introduces the language of classroom studies. Students will develop oral classroom skills and reading strategies, expand their vocabulary, and use more complex sentence patterns. Students will also learn how to use some school and community resources.
ESL Level C, Open (Course Code: ESLCO)
This course is designed to improve students’ accuracy in using English in classroom situations, for personal and career planning, and to understand the changing world around them. Students will study and interpret a range of texts and produce a variety of forms of writing. Activities will also help students to develop their oral presentation skills and acquire study skills (including note taking and summarizing skills) that will enhance their ability to learn in all subjects.
ESL Level D, Open (Course Code: ESLDO)
This course prepares students to use English with increasing accuracy in most classroom and social situations and to participate in society as informed citizens. Students will develop the reading, writing, and oral presentations skills required for success in all subjects. Students will study and interpret a variety of grade-level texts with the teacher’s guidance, develop oral communication skills through participation in informal debates and seminars, and extend their range of research skills.
ESL Level E, Open (Course Code: ESLEO)
This course prepares students for secondary school English and other courses at the college and university preparation levels. Students will be encourage to develop independence in reading literacy works and academic texts, in using all stages of the writing process, and in applying learning strategies and research skills effectively. Students will also learn to respond critically to print and media work.
PLEASE NOTE:
Information on the Ontario school system, is made available in many languages at the settlement.org website:
www.settlement.org/site/ED/GUIDE