Our Approach to ESL
Luther College has an excellent reputation for developing students’ academic skills so that they are well prepared for post-secondary studies. The objective of our English as a Second Language (ESL) program is to equip international students with the requisite English language skills for finding academic success both at Luther and at a post-secondary institution of their choosing.
The ESL program uses a mixture of classroom and one-on-one instruction to ensure individual needs are being assessed and supported in a positive and caring learning environment. Benchmarked by the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), the ESL program uses a three-step approach that helps to graduate our students from communicative confidence to autonomous learning.
1. The first step in our learning approach is our ESL Foundations program (CEFR B1). Here, students will encounter a mixture of communication, reading/vocabulary, and writing strategies designed to improve their academic skills, as well as provide opportunities for the students to use their English conversation in natural and meaningful ways. These combinations help to instil both academic and social confidence as our students become more accustomed to the expectations of a Canadian high school environment.
2. The second stage of ESL development, ESL Academic (CEFR B2), places increased emphasis on the academic skills required for high school and beyond. The students in this program will focus more on the academic reading, writing, research, and analysis skills needed to succeed in an academic environment. This course combines an academic ESL class with a writing strategies class and one-on-one language coaching. The combination of which helps to ensure that each student’s global and individual language needs are met.
3. Finally, our ESL higher-level program (CEFR C1) will help address additional reading, writing and analysis questions and concerns students may encounter in upper-level courses. Students are taught in a one-on-one environment, where their specific course and language needs can be addressed. Students at this level are given additional help to direct them toward finding their answers and becoming more autonomous learners. These three steps help prepare our ESL students to work more effectively in any environment they may encounter, whether that be social or academic.
Supporting the Whole Student
In addition to our academic pursuits, the ESL program at Luther helps to support the non-academic needs of our students. Students in our program are all encouraged to join afterschool clubs, sports teams, arts (drama, musical theatre, and choir). It is through these experiences that our students gain more motivation to practice and use their newly acquired language skills. These activities help create a positive high school experience, where our students are given the chance to make friends and expand their experiences.
Your Path to Enrolling in EAL at Luther College
Step 1: Initial Assessment Before enrolling in EAL at Luther College High School, you’ll need to complete an intake exam. This two-hour test will check your skills in speaking, writing, and grammar. The results are based on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) standards. To be considered, you’ll need to score at least a B1 level.
Step 2: Acceptance and Next Steps Once you’re accepted into the program, you’ll need to get your study visa and pay the required fees. From there, your journey begins with different class options based on your assessment level:
Assessment Levels
General Student: Once you’ve shown your skills and reached the necessary level, you can take any course at Luther College without restrictions.
Foundation Level: A 75% average is required. You’ll take classes in conversation, writing, and reading. Your course options are limited to non-ESL grade 9 classes, with extra classes in drama, music, wellness, science, or math.
Advanced EAL: Here, a 75% average is also required. You’ll dive into advanced academic classes, one-on-one language coaching, and even participate in English 9. Your course selection expands to include science, math, and more.
Higher Level EAL: With a 65% total average, you’ll receive one-on-one tutoring and can take up to two humanities classes per semester. You’ll need to demonstrate your abilities by reaching a C1+ level in language proficiency.
Final Step: Language Assessment
If English isn’t your first language, you’ll start with an online English language assessment via Skype. This two-hour test includes an interview, writing, reading, and listening tests. You can do this from home, and our language tester will schedule a time to meet online.
Remember, to enroll at Luther College High School, you need to score at least a B1 level. If you’re at a beginner level (CEFR A1 or A2), you’ll need to improve your skills before reapplying.
What is Required at Each Level?
Intermediate
Intermediate Level EAL: Building a Strong Foundation
The Foundations Program at Luther College High School is designed for students at the Intermediate EAL level (CEFR B1, IELTS 5, TOEFL 61). This program provides the essential academic and social English skills needed to build a solid foundation for future success. Students follow carefully planned schedules, approved by the EAL director and the Vice-Principal of Academics, that balance academic, artistic, and social needs, fostering a well-rounded approach to language learning.
Graduating from the Foundations EAL Program: To graduate from the Foundations EAL program, students must:
- Maintain a 75% Average: Students need to achieve a 75% average in their three EAL classes: Conversation, Reading/Vocabulary, and Writing.
- Meet CEFR Standards: Assessments are benchmarked to meet the CEFR B1/B2 standards.
Foundations EAL Classes: In addition to a small selection of Grade 9 classes, students in the Foundations program take three EAL classes daily, totaling 150 minutes each day for one semester. These classes use various strategies to develop and strengthen language skills, including interactive activities, games, daily journals, and reading/vocabulary logs. A focus on technology and careful planning ensures that lessons are paced and ordered effectively.
- Conversation Class: This group class helps students connect their learning to real-world experiences. It builds communicative confidence through challenging activities where students negotiate meaning, reflect, develop fluency, and practice in a supportive environment.
- Vocabulary/Reading Class: In this class, students work on self-directed vocabulary acquisition and improve reading comprehension in a small group setting. Using technology, they create vocabulary lists, maintain a reading log, and engage in discussions. Teachers use various methods to help students retain information and think critically about their reading materials.
- Writing Skills Class: Writing is often the most challenging area for EAL students. Given that Luther College High School is a university prep school, developing strong academic writing skills is crucial. This one-on-one writing class provides individualized daily sessions, where teachers use innovative and creative methods to help students improve their writing.
Additional Classes: Language learning can be challenging, but the Foundations program supports students’ social and artistic development alongside their academic progress. In addition to their EAL classes, students can take several regular classes, including Art, Wellness, Drama, Music, and Math 9. While many of these are non-credit classes, they offer authentic opportunities to practice language skills in a low-stakes environment. Classes like drama, art, and wellness emphasize speaking and listening skills while providing a fun space for students to showcase their talents without relying heavily on reading or writing.
Advanced
Advanced Level EAL: Building the Foundation for Academic Success
The Advanced EAL program at Luther College High School is designed for students at the CEFR B2 level (IELTS 6, TOEFL 84). This program focuses on equipping students with the academic skills needed to thrive both at Luther and in their future educational pursuits. The Advanced class is rigorous, preparing students to succeed in regular high school courses.
Graduating from the Advanced Program: To graduate from the Advanced EAL program, students must:
- Maintain a 75% Average: Students need to achieve a 75% average in their EAL classes.
- Meet CEFR Standards: Students must also meet the CEFR B2/C1 benchmarks as the goal for their assessments.
Advanced EAL Classes: Students in the Advanced class will take three specialized EAL courses in addition to a larger selection of Grade 9 classes. The program uses a variety of strategies to strengthen the academic language necessary for success at Luther and beyond. This includes a strong emphasis on reflection, team and individual writing, daily journals, critical thinking, and research methods. The curriculum is carefully planned to scaffold academic skills effectively throughout the semester.
- Main Class: The daily main class focuses on developing note-taking and course management skills before moving into more complex areas like English literature, presentations, and research. Students learn to read closely, reflect, and analyze content, leading to in-depth writing assignments that adhere to academic writing conventions.
- Writing Class: Held every second day, this class emphasizes key writing skills, including paragraph and essay structure, quotations and citations, organization, and reflection. Daily writing exercises help expand vocabulary and deepen writing abilities.
- Language Coaching: Students meet with their personalized language coach every second day. These sessions are divided between student-led and teacher-led days. On student-led days, students bring questions from their classes, helping them develop responsibility and autonomy in learning. Teacher-led days focus on tailored lessons that address specific needs, such as writing techniques, conversation skills, and grammatical issues. Coaches also work to build relationships with students, helping them navigate Canadian culture and the Luther community.
Additional Classes: Students in the Advanced EAL program typically take only one Humanities course, such as English 9, to manage the workload. This allows them to experience the expectations of Luther’s Humanities classes without being overwhelmed. In addition, Advanced students may start participating in Math and Science classes, where reading and writing demands are higher. They are also encouraged to take credit classes in wellness, health, art, music, choir, and drama.
Higher
Higher Level EAL: Preparing for Academic Success
At the final stage of Luther College’s EAL program, students enter the Higher Level. This stage is designed for those on the cusp of advanced English proficiency (CEFR C1, IELTS 7, TOEFL 100). Here, students meet with language coaches every second day, totaling five sessions every two weeks. The focus is on helping them fully engage in Luther’s academic programs, especially in humanities courses where strong language skills are crucial.
What to Expect:
- Personalized Coaching: Students lead their language sessions, bringing questions and goals related to their humanities courses. Coaches guide them to think critically, develop opinions, and become independent learners. The coach’s role is not to provide answers but to help students bridge gaps in understanding and build essential skills.
- Focused Humanities Support: Higher Level students typically take two humanities courses, such as English 10 and Christian Ethics, with the option to add History if needed for graduation.
- Skill Development: Students will learn time management, organization, prioritization, and research techniques. These skills are crucial for success in both school and future work environments.
Graduating from Higher Level EAL: To move on from Higher Level EAL, students must:
- Maintain an Overall Average: Students need to pass all registered courses and maintain at least a 65% average.
- Teacher Approval: English, Christian Ethics, and possibly History teachers must agree that the student is ready to progress without further EAL support, based on classroom performance and participation.
- Coach Approval: The language coach must confirm that the student meets CEFR C1 benchmarks, showing strong language skills, critical thinking, and the ability to clearly express opinions in speaking and writing.
If any of these criteria aren’t met, students may need to repeat the Higher Level EAL for another semester to ensure they have the support needed to reach their academic goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question about our ESL program, you might find an answer below!
You may also email us at lutherhs@luthercollege.edu.
No, unfortunately, success in these standardized tests has not correlated with success at our school. Our program not only teaches English as a language, but it has a specific focus on building the skills that lead to academic success. Our Skype intake procedure has shown the strongest link between expected level and success in our program.
The Skype test can be done from the comfort of your own home. Our tester will schedule a time to meet on-line, and will conduct the test on their computer. An applicant will need an internet connection, and a Skype and email account.
Yes! If you would like to come to Luther College High School for one semester to experience Canadian high school and build your English ability, we suggest our Foundations program. Of course, if you would like to continue with your studies, we have other courses available as well.
Unfortunately, at this time, we do not offer a summer program.
Unfortunately, there are no guarantees. While learning a language is one of the most difficult skills to master, learning academic language is even more difficult. Our program prepares students with the basic skills needed to be successful in our other high school programs. Like all students, work ethic, dedication and drive are needed to be successful. However, over 96% of Luther College students do enroll in post-secondary education after graduation.
Due to the strong emphasis on academics found at Luther, international students coming with a credit in English from another institution may not be able to succeed in Luther’s regular English classes. The same applies to other humanities classes including History and Christian Ethics. Students studying in an academic environment typically need a lot of language support, and because of this, Luther provides ample English language support for our international students, both in the classroom and one-on-one, until they have reached a proficiency level where they can find academic success on their own. The placement of international students in both ESL and mainstream courses is based on the results of a language assessment that all non-native English speakers must complete over Skype before attending Luther. If your child has tested at Level B1, B2, C1 during our intake assessment, we have deemed the ESL program a mandatory step in their high school career.
Student attendance for both ESL classes and one-on-one coaching is critical and will be one of the determining factors in whether or not a student passes into either the next level of ESL or graduates from the ESL program.
All students who test at the Intermediate level are registered in grade 9. Intermediate level students will have to successfully complete four years of study (starting in grade 9 regardless of equivalent credits) to eligible to graduate from Luther College High School. This grade level could be adjusted (if appropriate) when the student completes the requirements for Intermediate Level ESL.
ESL students who test at an Advanced ESL level will be limited to grade 9 (and 10 classes) and it should be understood that students in advanced ESL level should plan to spend four years to complete their ESL levels and their high school diploma. Most of the students at this level will be registered in a grade nine English class to experience the expectations in the humanities classes at Luther College.
Foundations – Students at this level are encouraged to take Math, Art, Drama, Music, Wellness and Drama. Students will not be registered for humanities classes at this level. Humanities classes include English, History, and Christian Ethics. Students will also not be able to study Science or any other modern language course.
Advanced – Students are enrolled in English 9 classes, as well as several Science, Math and Arts options. However, they are not be permitted to study other humanities classes at this level. These include History, Christian Ethics, and a language other than Latin.
High-Level – Students at this level are registered to study English and Christian Ethics. Students may be registered in a maximum of two humanities classes while studying Higher Level ESL with no more than one class in each subject. In exceptional cases, students may be allowed to also register for History in addition to Christian Ethics and English (this typically happens when a student must repeat High Level). For a student to be eligible, all of the teachers this student had the previous semester must agree they have exceptional motivation. In such situations, the student may be allowed to add the third humanities class.
Students in our program are generally limited to two Humanities classes and are not allowed to enrol in two courses of English simultaneously with a language other than English (i.e. Latin, French, and German).
Students that have received a transfer credit from their previous school in English 10 recognized by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education will be registered for English 10 in their first semester at Luther.
All students planning to graduate from Luther College are required to study one Christian Ethics class per year of study at Luther. Exceptions are possible if students have recognized credits in Christian Ethics at another institution before attending Luther College. For Intermediate and Advanced Level ESL students, the requirement is deferred until the students’ English comprehension is sufficient to study and participate in the Christian Ethics curriculum.
Luther College High School is committed to building a diverse community. Our students come from many countries, some having immigrated to Canada with their parents, others coming here without their family. Both residence and day students can benefit from being in an intercultural community by sharing their own culture and language, taking part in school events and by forming friendships outside their home culture.
The school strives to teach an intrapersonal mindset at Luther to students: asking them to practice connection, respect and understanding as the foundations of community. There are a number of opportunities to do so: the International Café, a twice-monthly opportunity for students to engage in that understanding, Language Exchange Club, and Multicultural Night where students showcase their culture through food and creative performances, as well as Chapel presentations. The Luther residence also focuses on celebrating both Canadian and international cultures.
We believe that involvement in the school community is essential for the linguistic and personal growth of our international students. Therefore, a major component of our ESL programming is something called Opportunities for Practicing English (OFPE), a series of assignments that measure student integration into the community at Luther. Students are evaluated on their English language “practice” efforts and involvement in the co-curricular and community life at Luther College. For example, students may join an athletic team or student club, or participate in the running the school’s annual musical (just a few of many options) then, based on this involvement; students submit an assignment in which they provide an analysis of their English speaking experience.