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Lower Merion School District

Off-Canvas

English Language Development (ELD)

The ELD program is offered to non-native English-speaking students with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). The ELD curriculum is flexible and based on the needs of the learners in the program and focuses on developing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. The course is designed to provide students with language experiences and familiarity with the structure of English, including phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. Students exit the ELD program upon meeting the Pennsylvania State mandated criteria.

English Language Development 1 (ELD 1)

  • Length/credit: 1 year - 1.0 credit
  • Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, 12
  • Prerequisite: ELD assessment and staff recommendation.
  • Course Number: 13010100

ELD 1 is offered for up to two sets for secondary students with Limited English Proficiency. ELD 1 focuses on developing oral and written communication skills while building general and academic vocabulary.

English Language Development 2 (ELD 2)

  • Length/credit: 1 year - 1.0 credit
  • Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, 12
  • Prerequisite: ELD 1 and/or staff recommendation and an ELD assessment.
  • Course Number: 13010200

ELD 2 students understand and speak conversational English but continue to require support to meet grade level expectations for content courses. The ELD 2 curriculum is based on the learners' needs with a focus on developing academic language and skills. Vocabulary, syntax, and grammar necessary for understanding content class materials are presented and practiced in context.

English Language Development 3 (ELD 3)

  • Length/credit: 1 year - 1.0 credit
  • Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, 12
  • Prerequisite: ELD 2 and/or staff recommendation and an ELD assessment.
  • Course Number: 13010400

ELD 3 students are nearing proficiency in the four domains of English language development: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The ELD curriculum focuses on mastering academic language as well as honing academic skills that are needed to be successful beyond the ELD classroom. Literary analysis, writing conventions, and vocabulary development are the primary focal areas of the course.