Once a student is identified as a possible English Learner (EL) through one of the procedures outlined under “Identification of Students” and then determined to be eligible for ESL instruction based upon the WIDA Screener, they are then enrolled in the district’s ESL program. ELs receive ESL instruction that is aimed at improving their English Proficiency through various models based upon their current levels of English Language Proficiency (ELP).  The program aligns with the PA English Language Development Standards (ELDS) for Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening for Grades K-12.

The PA ELDS Framework is designed to help educators effectively differentiate instruction and assessment across content areas for ELs at varying levels of English Language Proficiency (ELP). The framework incorporates the acquisition of social and academic language across development levels and the incremental demands of language through various grade levels (PDE BEC-Educating English Learners, 7/2017).

PA ELD Standards

English Language Development Standard 1: English language learners communicate for Social and Instructional purposes within the school setting.

English Language Development Standard 2: English language learners communicate information, ideas, and concepts necessary for academic success in the content area of Language Arts.

English Language Development Standard 3: English language learners communicate information, ideas, and concepts necessary for academic success in the content area of Mathematics.

English Language Development Standard 4: English language learners communicate information, ideas, and concepts necessary for academic success in the content area of Science.

English Language Development Standard 5: English language learners communicate information, ideas, and concepts necessary for academic success in the content area of Social Studies.

Goal 1:  To use English to communicate in social settings.

  • Use English to participate in social interaction.
  • Interact in, through, and with spoken and written English for personal expression and enjoyment.
  • Use learning strategies to extend communicative competence.

Goal 2:  To use English to achieve academically in all content areas.

  • Use English to interact in the classroom.
  • Use English to obtain, process, construct, and provide subject matter information in spoken and written form.
  • Use appropriate learning strategies to construct and apply academic knowledge.

Goal 3:  To use English in socially and culturally appropriate ways.

  • Use the appropriate language variety, register, and genre according to audience, purpose, and setting.
  • Use nonverbal communication appropriate to audience, purpose, and setting.
  • Use appropriate learning strategies to extend socio-linguistic and socio-cultural competence.