The English Language Development (ELD) program provides high-quality English language development instruction aligned to grade level content standards in English Language Arts. These courses focus on helping students develop the academic language proficiency needed to be able to learn content knowledge, skills, and processes and effectively use language to communicate proficiently in mainstream courses.
These courses are designed for the rapid mastery of the English language, focusing on reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. ELD courses usually begin with extensive listening and speaking practice, building on auditory and oral skills, and support the development of reading and writing. These courses provide an explanation of grammatical structures of the English language, enabling students to progress from a basic understanding of English words and verb tenses to a more comprehensive grasp of various formal and informal styles to prepare them for grade-level mainstream English courses. ELD courses may also include an orientation to the customs and culture of the diverse population in the United States. Emergent Multilingual Learners (EMLs) can only receive up to two English credits from ELD courses for up to four semesters.
These courses provide opportunities for students to develop their competency in understanding spoken English, using vocabulary and language structures correctly in context, and engaging in extensive academic discourse. They receive instruction from grade-level curriculum resources and complex texts that represent various genres of narration, poetry, drama, and exposition and are taught to analyze text from cultural and historical perspectives. Valuing and promoting the home language and culture of EMLs fosters the understanding that literacy skills can be transferred across languages. It is critical that all educators in each school collaborate to support the academic success of EMLs.
Currently there are METS sites at the following schools:
| Middle Schools | High Schools |
|---|---|
Eastern MS |
Bethesda Chevy Chase HS |