Concordia’s English as an Additional Language (EAL) Program Prepares Students for Success

Concordia offers a robust EAL program to non-native English-speaking students who qualify for admission, helping them achieve greater academic success.

EAL teachers bring their own skills and activities while also supporting the classroom teaching material. Since our curriculum is entirely in English, EAL lessons are designed to focus on the vocabulary students will encounter in other classes before they are introduced. Research shows that this method is effective because students encounter this language in various contexts, such as science and social studies classes, as well as in language study.

“I got the basic idea of what we were going to learn in upcoming classes. For example, I learned the definition of the word ‘weathering,’ and then I could understand it when it came up in class,” said Kevin (G4).

Concordia’s EAL teachers also utilize translanguaging, a pedagogical tool that recognizes how valuable a student’s home language can be when they are learning a new language.

“A student’s home language is like a tool for EAL or language teachers to help students make sense of their learning, especially for our non-English speakers,” explained EAL Coordinator Mrs. Caballero. “It’s different from code-switching. We’re not just translating; we embrace the first language and dig deeper into what a word means in their own language. Once they understand the meaning in their native language, they can connect it to the English equivalent. When they understand their own language, it provides an element of social justice in language learning. Translanguaging is an equalizer for non-native speakers. When students are given the opportunity to use their first language, it helps them realize, ‘Oh, I’m not different from others. I can use both English and my own language in this classroom.’”

 

“EAL helped me improve in two ways: first, by adapting to the environment because I was a new student. Talking with my EAL teacher about school and other things that happen in our daily lives helped me feel more connected to the school environment. Secondly, I got to know my weaknesses and where I needed to improve. So, EAL helped me grow in English comprehension, and the result was that I graduated from EAL with a score I feel good about,” said Hyewon (G7).

EAL teachers vary their methods and strategies so students remain engaged throughout the class. Students play fun word games like online bingo and crossword puzzles, as well as using programs like IXL and Kahoot. Sometimes, the parents of younger students join in too. “We appreciate parents’ help,” added Mrs. Caballero.

“In Middle School, I was able to learn a lot about English. Since I was new to Concordia in 7th grade, I was very nervous and couldn’t speak English very well at first. But many teachers helped me a lot, and by the time I finished Middle School and entered High School, I had gained confidence—not only in my English but also in how to study,” said Gloria (G9).

Learn more about Concordia’s EAL program.

 

  • Elementary School
  • Middle School