English Language Learning pathways
At CIS, English language learning follows a clear, structured pathway designed to support students at every stage—from little or no English to full academic fluency.
Our expert teachers specialise in working with students from diverse language backgrounds, ensuring each child builds confidence and progresses at the right pace.
A clear pathway to academic success
The journey below shows how students develop their English skills at CIS, preparing them for success in the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), graduation, and beyond.
Minimal English
- Build a strong foundation - Develop general English and academic vocabulary
- Entry assessment - Interview based
- Average duration - 1-2 semester
Beginner English with some exposure
- Build skills and confidence - Develop general English and academic vocabulary
- Entry assessment - From WIDA score 2.5
- Average duration - 2 semesters
Intermediate English and above
- Succeed in the classroom - Academic English support alongside mainstream subjects
- Entry assessment - From WIDA score 3
- Ongoing evaluation - Support tailored to each students
Why choose CIS?
Fast-track English & Academic Readiness:
An intensive course helping Grades 7–9 students rapidly build the language and study skills to succeed in the IB MYP.
Proven Success:
More than half our students graduate after just one semester, 98.5% successfully transitioning into the full IB programme by the end of the year.
CLIL Teaching Approach:
Small classes (max 18) taught by specialist teachers who integrate English learning into every subject — English, Maths, Science, I&S, and PE.
Full School Experience:
Foundation students join all whole-school clubs, CCAs, and assemblies — building friendships across grades and practising English in real contexts.
Personalised, Supportive Learning:
Individual goals, continuous progress tracking, and a balance of academic challenge, confidence-building, and global citizenship development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Thoughtfully Designed. Carefully Supported.
Will my child keep up academically while learning English?
Yes. Language support at CIS is designed to enable, not delay learning. Students continue to engage with the full curriculum, developing knowledge, skills and understanding alongside their peers, with the support needed to access it confidently.
Will English support take time away from core subjects?
No. English language support is thoughtfully integrated into the school day. Students receive dedicated instruction while remaining fully engaged in Mathematics, Science, Humanities and other core areas of learning.
How is my child’s English level determined?
Students complete a WIDA assessment twice a year at the end of each semester. This provides a comprehensive picture of their proficiency across speaking, listening, reading and writing. This allows us to place each child in the environment where they will feel both supported and appropriately challenged.
How long will my child remain in the programme?
Language development is a highly individual process. Progression is guided by readiness, confidence and independence and not a fixed timeline. Our focus is on ensuring each student is fully prepared for success.
Will my child feel confident and included?
Yes. Students learn alongside peers with similar language proficiency, creating a supportive and inclusive environment. This shared experience helps build confidence, encourages participation and fosters a strong sense of belonging.
How are subjects like Mathematics supported?
All subjects are taught using language-aware approaches. Teachers use visual modelling, clear explanations and structured scaffolding to ensure students can fully understand concepts and engage meaningfully in their learning.
How will I know my child is progressing?
Progress is closely monitored through a combination of WIDA assessments, classroom observations and ongoing communication. Parents are regularly updated through school reports, conferences and direct teacher feedback.
Can students move between stages of the programme?
Students progress as they demonstrate the language, confidence and independence required for the next stage.
What happens when my child is ready to transition out of ELL?
The transition is gradual and carefully managed at the end of a semester. Students move forward when they are consistently able to apply their language skills independently across subjects and contexts.
Is support withdrawn once a student exits ELL?
No. Support continues in a responsive and less visible way, ensuring students remain confident and successful as they transition fully into independent learning.
Is this a programme for students who are behind?
Not at all. ELL is a specialised pathway designed to accelerate access to learning. It enables students to fully participate in a rigorous international curriculum while developing academic English.
Will my child be able to participate fully in school life?
Absolutely. Students are active members of the school community from the outset, with full access to extracurricular activities, enrichment opportunities and the wider life of the school.
Canadian International School
