English as a Second Language

Country Day is the first independent school in the area to offer English as a Second Language support for students who are still developing their English skills.

The Admissions Office determines the need for English as a Second Language. Prospective students are recommended for ESL based on an interview, an oral English proficiency test, and listening, vocabulary, and reading comprehension tests.

ESL courses (with the exception of TOEFL Prep, when offered) can substitute for credits in the English or History departments, as appropriate. ESL students at a more advanced level frequently elect to enroll in a regular English course in addition to their ESL class(es).

Course Descriptions

Intermediate ESL

Full year. Students learn to communicate in English as they practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Basic grammatical structures are introduced. Students also develop an understanding of American culture through discussion, reading, and writing about cultural issues. Students are taught all of the English verb tenses as well as other intermediate level grammatical skills. This course may be repeated as needed for mastery.

Advanced ESL

Full year. High-intermediate to low-advanced level reading, writing, and grammatical skills are taught in this course. Students read a short novel, newspaper articles, short stories, and
learn to write analytical essays and other types of essays. The course also includes a comprehensive review of English grammar and composition. Vocabulary building is
emphasized throughout the year to enhance reading comprehension and written expression. This course may be repeated as needed for mastery.

ESL American History

Full year. Please note that this course is offered in alternate years to ESL World History. This course is designed for Upper School students whose proficiency in English requires practice in reading, writing, and speaking techniques. The goals of the course are to develop English proficiency, to provide an overview of the major events and figures in American history, and to
encourage students to apply learning strategies and skills to their study of a second language. This course may substitute for the required American History course for ESL students.

ESL World History

Full year. Please note this course is offered in alternate years to ESL US History. This course is designed for Upper School students whose proficiency in English requires practice in reading, writing, and speaking techniques. Additionally, research skills are taught along with frequent essays and papers. The course allows students to receive an overview of World History
with an emphasis on European History. The course meets the World History requirement for ESL students.

Questions?

For questions or additional information on our English as a Second Language program, please contact:
Joe Gardner
Director of ESL
E-mail