ENL » English Language Learners

English Language Learners

ENL Magnet for English Language Learners (Grades 6–8)

 

Description

The ENL (English as a New Language) Magnet Program at David A. Boody Middle School is specifically designed to support English Language Learners (ELLs) at various stages of language development, including entering, emerging, and transitioning levels. This program provides a nurturing and structured environment for students who are mandated to receive language support services, with the ultimate goal of helping them succeed on the NYSESLAT (New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test) exam.

Students in the ENL Magnet will work to build their English language proficiency in all areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Our curriculum integrates academic content from core subjects, such as math, science, social studies, and language arts, to ensure that students not only improve their language skills but also succeed in other subjects.

 

Grade 6 Topics: Building a Strong Foundation

  • Listening & Speaking Skills: Students will engage in activities that focus on understanding spoken English and expressing themselves clearly.

  • Basic Vocabulary and Grammar: Emphasis on building essential vocabulary and understanding basic grammar to communicate effectively.

  • Introduction to Academic English: Students will be introduced to academic language used in subjects like math and science, helping them become familiar with school-related terms.

  • Interactive Language Activities: Using games, group work, and interactive activities to practice English in real-life contexts.

 

Grade 7 Topics: Expanding Language Skills

  • Reading Comprehension: Strategies for understanding and analyzing texts, including informational and narrative texts, to improve academic reading.

  • Writing Skills: Focus on sentence structure, paragraph writing, and introducing basic essay writing.

  • Conversational English: Encouraging students to participate in discussions and express opinions in English, both inside and outside of the classroom.

  • Academic Vocabulary: Building a strong academic vocabulary to improve understanding in all subject areas.

 

Grade 8 Topics: Transitioning to Full Academic Participation

  • Advanced Listening & Speaking: Listening to more complex materials and engaging in higher-level conversations and debates.

  • Reading and Writing for the NYSESLAT: Focus on strategies to succeed on the NYSESLAT exam, including comprehension techniques and essay writing.

  • Content Area Integration: Integrating English learning with content from science, social studies, and math to prepare for high school-level academics.

  • Test Preparation: Targeted preparation for the NYSESLAT exam, helping students understand the structure of the test and how to approach each section with confidence.


Program Features and Highlights

  • Mandated Support Services: The program provides language support services required for English Language Learners, including small group instruction and individualized attention.

  • Collaborative Learning: Students will collaborate with peers in small groups, practicing their language skills through hands-on activities and project-based learning.

  • Cultural and Linguistic Inclusivity: Our program values the cultural backgrounds of our students, fostering an environment that celebrates diversity while helping them feel comfortable as they learn.

  • Test Preparation for NYSESLAT: Students will receive ongoing support and guidance to prepare for the NYSESLAT exam, which is essential for assessing their English proficiency.

  • Continuous Progress Monitoring: We track students’ progress through regular assessments and adjust instruction to ensure each student’s needs are being met effectively.


The ENL Magnet is designed to help students gain the language skills they need to succeed both in school and in their daily lives. By participating in this program, students will build their confidence and competence in English, laying the foundation for academic success and future opportunities. Our goal is to help students not only prepare for the NYSESLAT exam, but also thrive as effective communicators and lifelong learners.