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    Second Language Education

    Students whose first language (L1) is a language other than English and who have been identified as limited in English per assessments are known as English Language Learners (ELLs) or Limited English Proficient (LEP).  These terms are used interchangeably in Alief ISD. The students that qualify participate in one of the three following programs that the district provides for Elementary level students.

    English as a Second Language Program

    Martin’s English as a Second Language (ESL) Program helps ELLs in Pre-K through fourth grade learn the required grade-level core subjects of reading/language arts, math, science, and social studies. Instruction is provided in English. The goal of the program is to help the ELLs become proficient in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English.

    Bilingual Education Program

    Martin’s Early Exit Spanish/English Bilingual program helps ELLs in PK, 3rd, and 4th grades learn the required grade-level core subjects of reading/language arts, math, science, and social studies. Instruction is provided mostly in Spanish in Pre-K and Kindergarten and gradually releases content areas to English so that by the second semester of second grade they are learning all in English. The goal of the program is to help the ELLs become proficient in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English.

     

    One-Way Dual Language Program (OWDL)

    Martin's OWDL program is a bilingual program in which native Spanish-speaking students use their primary language and English to learn content and language. The goal is to help students achieve biliteracy, bilingualism, and biculturalism. The OWDL program will gradually phase out the Early Exit Bilingual program. Martin currenty offers the program to students in K-2. The OWDL program aims for 50% instruction in the student’s primary language, Spanish, and 50% of the instruction in English. The language of instruction is distributed as reflected on the chart below:

    OWDL

    Two-Way Dual Language (TWDL) Immersion Program- ALMA

    Martin’s Two-Way Dual Language (TWDL) Immersion Program is a bilingual program integrating two linguistic groups of students. The TWDL program is designed to help students attain high academic achievement in both English and Spanish and will prepare them for the future. The goals of the TWDL program are:

    • Bilingualism: ability to speak in two languages…at an academic level
    • Biliteracy: ability to read and write in two languages…at an academic level
    • Cross-Cultural Awareness: ability to live and work with people of diverse backgrounds

    Gifted and Talented (PEP/ QUEST)

    Alief offers many program options for advanced level students through the Advanced Academics Department. At Martin Elementary students who are identified as gifted and talented through the district’s screening process participate in on campus enrichment pull out programs as well as differentiated instruction by a GT certified classroom teacher. Students in Kindergarten through second grade are a part of PEP and students in third and fourth grade are a part of Quest. These pull out enrichment programs provide students opportunities to elaborate, think originally, think flexibly, and produce new ideas as they become self-directed learners who are competent in thinking, research, and communication.

    Special Education Inclusion

    Martin is an inclusive school where all students have the opportunity to learn in general education settings and participate in all extra- and co-curricular activities with their age-appropriate peers. We have: speech therapy, in-class support, LIFE skills, and REACH II/III. Click here for the Alief Special Education Department Website.