10.58.534    ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL)

(1)  The English as a Second Language (ESL) program requires that successful candidates: 

(a)  demonstrate understanding of language as a system, including phonology, morphology, syntax, pragmatics, and semantics;

(b)  use the major language acquisition theories to develop a standards-based ESL curriculum which teaches language and literacy through academic content areas;

(c)  apply knowledge of the functions and registers of language to develop and modify instructional materials, deliver instruction, and promote English learner (EL) students' academic English language proficiency;

(d)  facilitate students' use of their first language as a resource to promote academic learning and further development of the second language;

(e)  implement a repertoire of research and evidence-based strategies that promote students' critical thinking and problem solving at all stages of language development;

(f)  demonstrate understanding of Montana's major language and cultural groups and how cultural histories and identities affect language learning and achievement;

(g)  establish goals, design curricula and instruction, and facilitate student learning in a manner that builds on students' linguistic and cultural diversity, promotes respect for linguistic differences, and creates a culturally responsive classroom environment;

(h)  demonstrate understanding of language proficiency assessment tools used for identification, placement, and reclassification of ELs;

(i)  demonstrate the ability to use a combination of assessments that measure language proficiency and content knowledge respectively to determine how level of language proficiency may affect the demonstration of academic performance;

(j)  demonstrate the ability to build partnerships with colleagues and studentsꞌ families, serve as community resources, and advocate for EL students;

(k)  apply knowledge of historical, theoretical, and policy factors in EL education to the planning, implementation, evaluation, and improvement of instructional programs; and

(l)  demonstrate successful completion of a two-year program, or the equivalent experience, in learning a second language.

History: 20-2-114, MCA; IMP, 20-2-121, MCA; NEW, 2023 MAR p. 86, Eff. 7/1/23.