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Intermediate Level

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:

  1. Maintain a 75% Average: Students need to achieve a 75% average in their three EAL classes: Conversation, Reading/Vocabulary, and Writing.
  2. 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.