English Language Learning (ELL) support
For students with intermediate English and above
From Junior Kindergarten to Grade 10
- Full participation in mainstream classes
- Targeted English support alongside academic subjects
- Focus on academic language, communication and critical thinking
Language support continues up to Grade 10 to ensure every student progresses successfully.
Why choose CIS for English Language Learning?
- Clear, structured progression from beginner to fluent
- Experienced, expert teachers in multilingual education
- Internationally recognised WIDA assessment framework
- Seamless transition into IB programmes
English Language Learning in the Primary Years Programme (PYP)
Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 (4 to 13 years old)
The ELL programme ensures multilingual learners can access, engage in and succeed within the PYP.
Language development is embedded within meaningful, concept-driven learning—not taught in isolation.
How ELL Fits into the school day
Students receive:
- A full academic timetable except for foreign language lessons replaced by 5 English lessons per week
- Push-in support within homeroom class
- Flexible grouping
- Differentiated instruction
- Small-group additional tailored support to student needs
From Grade 7 the focus is on:
- Ongoing ELL support alongside academic subjects
- Advanced academic language and communication skills
Assessment and progression
- Entry via WIDA assessment interview
- Continuous monitoring and support adjustments
Outcomes
- 85–90% of students achieve at least one level of growth each year
- More than 50% exit the programme annually
- Average duration: 2 years
Students are fully ready for academic success in MYP and beyond to graduation.
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