English as an Additional Language

The following is reproduced from the document Curriculum Framework for English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Literacy, Academics and Language (LAL) Programming (2011):

EAL is the study of English by students who already speak at least one other language or who come from a home in which another language is used. Classroom and EAL teachers are jointly responsible for assisting students in becoming fluent in English. EAL programming focus on key competencies, as well as on the language demands of all subject areas across the curriculum. Programs encompass knowledge about language, how language works, and how it is used in a variety of contexts when speaking, listening, reading, viewing, representing, and writing.

EAL and LAL skill areas

The four skill areas traditionally associated with both general language learning and EAL development (listening, speaking, reading, writing) have been expanded to include the components of viewing and representing. This reflects (a) the complex range of texts EAL learners engage with and produce, and (b) the terms used in the provincial ELA curriculum.

These skills are highly interconnected in a variety of communicative situations.  Conversations, for example, involve both speaking and listening. Completing a task in a computer lab may involve elements of listening, reading, viewing, and writing. Many oral, print, and other media texts integrate the six language components in various combinations. Oral language is essential for self-expression, forming and maintaining relationships, and interacting with others. It is the foundation of literacy. Reading and writing are essential for success in school and functioning effectively in the wider community. Viewing and representing reflect the nature of today’s media world and the connection of visual representations to learning and language.

On the sidebar you will find outcome charts containing media-related learning expectations from the social sciences curriculum, with links to supporting resources on the MediaSmarts site. As many of our lessons can be adapted to suit different grade levels and abilities, specific lessons may be listed for more than one grade. Teachers should also note that individual lessons often satisfy a number of expectations.