Our Program
Levels and Teaching Strategies
Beginners Level --- also called the Non-English Proficiency Stage
Students at this stage are not ready to actively produce language. They are listening
and beginning to respond and show that they understand by using nonverbal signals.
Students in this stage demonstrate the following:
· respond in a nonverbal manner
· memorize written or spoken works and phrases rely heavily on pictures to understand tests
the Developing Fluency Stage· demonstrate limited comprehension especially of written language
Intermediate Level --- also called the Receptive Language Stage.
Students can attend to hand-on demonstrations and illustrated stories with more
understanding. They can give one-word responses, and initiate a conversation by
pointing and using a single word. As receptive vocabulary expands, they can respond
nonverbally to a wide range of vocabulary items. Students in this stage demonstrate the
following:
· improved understanding of basic interpersonal communications (BIC)
· comprehend about 20% of the academic content they hear
· inability to comprehend most textbooks
· writing limited to 2-5 word sentences
· large gaps in vocabulary, grammar and reading comprehension
Advanced Level III --- also called the Developing Fluency Stage
Students are able to communicate their thoughts more completely. They can participate in everyday conversations without relying on concrete contextual support. Some can use the telephone in situations in which little previous context has been established. Students in this stage demonstrate the following:
· an ability to express ideas on a wide range of topics
· an ability to comprehend develop mentally appropriate material
· an ability to write to convey meaning and understanding
· small gaps in vocabulary and/or grammar