International Pathways

Preparing students for success in a global society

International Pathways at Emerson Elementary School: ELP Two-way Immersion

Two-way Immersion provides two language groups (English and Spanish) with an opportunity to become bilingual and biliterate. Research shows that it takes 7-10 years in order to acquire proficiency in an additional language. The student’s first language is used to support the acquisition of their second; students learn to read, write and speak both languages. By using both languages equally, students stand strong, appreciating and bridging cultures while achieving academic success. Becoming proficient in both languages is recognized as a significant intellectual and cultural achievement which prepares students to be powerful contributors in our global society.

Purpose
The purpose of the proposed Two-way Immersion ELP Program is:

to better equip ELP students to fully participate in a global society as bilingual, biliterate and bicultural members
to better serve high achieving Spanish speaking students
to increase the number of Latino students represented in the Magnet Extended Learning Program
to better serve an increasing ELP student population

Instructional Model
50-50 Two-way Immersion

Class composition to represent 50% ELP English speakers and 50% ELP Spanish speakers
• Instructional Schedule—50% in English and 50% in Spanish
• Specialized curriculum and instruction for advanced learners

Student Profile
You should consider a student for this program if several or most of the following describe the student:

Understands new ideas with little effort
Has an excellent memory
Obsesses in an area of interest
Has a long attention span for some projects
Displays advanced reasoning abilities
Recognizes the humor in different situations
Has a high interest in books
Tends to prefer older companions
Advanced in one or more content areas
Insists on perfection
Displays an extensive vocabulary for age in his/her primary language

Guiding Principles of Instruction

Inquiry-based and problem-based instruction
- Students study the core-curriculum through investigations, requiring them to use critical thinking skills in an effort to find answers to a designated problem.
Differentiated Instruction and curriculum for advanced learners
- Acceleration
- Depth and complexity
- Advanced curriculum
- Appropriate instructional strategies for gifted learners
Sheltered Instruction (SIOP)
Instructional depth and complexity

Assessment Process
Contact the ELP Department to set up an appointment for testing: 801-578-8573