English as a Second Language

The ESL and ELD (English Literacy Development) curriculum is based on the belief that broad proficiency in English is essential to students’ success in both their social and academic lives, and to their ability to take their place in society as responsible and productive citizens. The curriculum is designed to provide English language learners with the knowledge and skills they need to achieve these goals.

The aim is to help students become successful English language learners at MCI who can:

• use English to communicate effectively in a variety of social settings;
• use English to achieve academically in all subject areas;
• take charge of their own learning, independently and in groups;
• select and use effective learning strategies;
• integrate confidently into mainstream courses;
• use English effectively to advocate for themselves in all areas of their lives;
• make a successful transition to their chosen postsecondary destination (work, apprenticeship, college, university);
• function effectively in a society increasingly committed to the use of information technology;
• use critical-literacy and critical-thinking skills to interpret the world around them;
• participate fully in the social, economic, political, and cultural life of their communities and of Canada.

(Ontario Ministry of Education, 2007, The Ontario Curriculum Grades 9 to 12: English as a Second Language and English Literacy Development, pp. 3-4)