Intensive ESL Program

The Toronto Academy of EMC adopts a straightforward yet highly effective approach to enhance students' English speaking and writing skills, enabling them to excel in secondary school courses. This will be achieved in a three-step process described below. 

Step 1: Upon admission to the Toronto Academy of EMC, each student is required to submit their academic transcript, encompassing a minimum of two years of previous study. This transcript serves multiple purposes, including determining the appropriate grade level and courses for the student. Furthermore, it plays a crucial role in assessing the student's proficiency in the English language. Additionally, students might be requested to complete an English placement test administered by the Toronto Academy of EMC, which serves as an additional tool for evaluating their English proficiency.

Step 2: In cases where a student's English speaking or writing abilities fall below the desired level, they are placed on an individualized study plan focused on English as a Second Language (ESL). The vice  principal of the school oversees the development of this study plan, tailoring it to the specific needs of each student. Generally, the study plan entails the student's enrollment in ESL courses following the Ontario Secondary School Curriculum.

Step 3: Once a student successfully completes their ESL study plan at the Toronto Academy of EMC, they will seamlessly transition back to their regular academic studies. This achievement indicates that the student's English speaking and writing skills have reached the desired level for success in secondary school courses.

However, if a student has not successfully completed their ESL study plan, the vice principal of the school, in collaboration with the student, will carefully evaluate the situation and determine the most suitable course of action. The ultimate goal is to provide the student with the necessary support and resources to further enhance their English language proficiency.

Based on the assessment, several options may be considered. The vice principal might decide to extend or modify the student's existing ESL study plan, allowing for additional time and focused instruction to address specific areas of improvement. This approach recognizes that every student's learning journey is unique, and some may require more time and specialized attention to master the English language skills necessary for academic success.

Alternatively, the vice principal may propose an independent study path tailored to the individual student's needs. This personalized approach takes into account the student's strengths, weaknesses, and learning preferences. It may involve a combination of self-paced learning materials, guided practice exercises, and one-on-one tutoring sessions to accelerate their language acquisition and bridge any gaps in their English skills.

Throughout the above process, the Toronto Academy of EMC maintains open lines of communication with both the student and their parents or guardians. Regular progress assessments and consultations are conducted to monitor the student's advancement and ensure their educational journey remains on track. Additionally, the school provides ongoing support and guidance, offering resources such as academic counseling, mentorship programs, and study groups to promote a positive and conducive learning environment.

Ultimately, Toronto Academy of EMC is committed to empowering every student with the necessary tools and opportunities to achieve their academic goals. By tailoring the path forward based on individual needs, the school ensures that students who require additional support in English language proficiency receive the assistance required to thrive in their secondary school studies and beyond.

The ESL courses offered at our school are designed to provide comprehensive and immersive instruction in English language skills. These courses encompass a wide range of topics, such as grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, reading comprehension, writing, and verbal communication. Through engaging classroom activities, interactive discussions, and practical assignments, students gain the necessary tools and knowledge to enhance their English proficiency.

The curriculum at Toronto Academy of EMC aims to foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment for ESL students. Alongside classroom instruction, students are encouraged to actively participate in extracurricular activities, language clubs, and workshops. These opportunities offer valuable practice in real-life English communication scenarios, building students' confidence and fluency.

Furthermore, our school employs a team of dedicated and qualified ESL instructors who are experienced in working with diverse learners. These instructors utilize a variety of teaching methods, such as multimedia resources, interactive technology, and individualized attention, to cater to the unique needs and learning styles of each student. Regular assessments and progress evaluations are conducted to monitor students' development and provide personalized feedback, ensuring their continuous improvement.

By implementing this comprehensive approach to English language instruction, students are equipped with the necessary linguistic skills to thrive academically in secondary school and beyond. The emphasis on individualized study plans, experienced instructors, and a supportive learning environment enables students to overcome language barriers, develop confidence in their abilities, and achieve success in their educational journey.

 

Below are the possible ESL courses that a student could be enrolled in. Each course consists of  110 hours of in-class instructionto be spreaded out over 4 weeks.  

 

Course

Course Code

Credit Value

ESL level 1

ESLAO

1

ESL level 2

ESLBO

1

ESL level 3

ESLCO

1

ESL level 4

ESLDO

1

ESL level 5

ESLEO

1

 

For further information regarding each of the courses above, please find below the course description, as per the Ontario Secondary School Curriculum

ESL level 1: This course builds on students’ previous education and language knowledge to introduce them to the English language and help them adjust to the diversity in their new environment. Students will use beginning English language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing for everyday and essential academic purposes. They will engage in short conversations using basic English language structures and simple sentence patterns; read short adapted texts; and write phrases and short sentences. The course also provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to begin to adapt to their new lives in Canada.

ESL level 2: This course extends students’ listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in English for everyday and academic purposes. Students will participate in conversations in structured situations on a variety of familiar and new topics; read a variety of texts designed or adapted for English language learners; expand their knowledge of English grammatical structures and sentence patterns; and link English sentences to compose paragraphs. The course also supports students’ continuing adaptation to the Ontario school system by expanding their knowledge of diversity in their new province and country.

ESL level 3: This course further extends students’ skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English for a variety of everyday and academic purposes. Students will make short classroom oral presentations; read a variety of adapted and original texts in English; and write using a variety of text forms. As well, students will expand their academic vocabulary and their study skills to facilitate their transition to the mainstream school program. This course also introduces students to the rights and responsibilities inherent in Canadian citizenship, and to a variety of current Canadian issues.

ESL level 4: This course prepares students to use English with increasing fluency and accuracy in classroom and social situations and to participate in Canadian society as informed citizens. Students will develop the oral-presentation, reading, and writing skills required for success in all school subjects. They will extend listening and speaking skills through participation in discussions and seminars; study and interpret a variety of grade-level texts; write narratives, articles, and summaries in English; and respond critically to a variety of print and media texts.

ESL level 5: This course provides students with the skills and strategies they need to make the transition to college and university preparation courses in English and other secondary school disciplines. Students will be encouraged to develop independence in a range of academic tasks. They will participate in debates and lead classroom workshops; read and interpret literary works and academic texts; write essays, narratives, and reports; and apply a range of learning strategies and research skills effectively. Students will further develop their ability to respond critically to print and media texts.