We’re working on developing a short description of our English Language Development (ELD — it’s what public schools call their ESL program in many parts of California) program at Luther Burbank High School.

I thought readers might be interested in the latest draft:

Luther Burbank’s ELD program uses many of the same elements that can be found in our mainstream classes — an emphasis on students reading books of their own choosing; heavily scaffolded writing instruction (our ELD uses The Write Institute curriculum as our core lessons); and use of inductive teaching methods so students can “discover” knowledge as much as they are “taught” it. Our two Intermediate classes also heavily use technology.

Our classes include one Beginner, one Early Intermediate; two Intermediate; and a 9.1 and 10.1 for higher level students. Several of these classes are double or triple “blocks.” We also have Math, Science and Social Science classes specifically geared towards ELD students.

In addition to classes during the day, we also provide additional support to our ELD students. We have an after-school conversational English class where our ELD students are “taught” by other native-English students. We provide computers and home Internet access to students and their families who use our website for improving their English skills. And we have an after-school class to help prepare ELD students to pass the California High School Exit Exam.