To the editor:
Re: “ESL students want credit for learning English,” Oct. 4
Recognizing ESL as an elective is not the answer. This would limit the graduation program and give credit for what other students already have accomplished.
The new graduation plan is being shaped to cut the number of topics required. The objective is to provide greater depth in fewer topics. Comprehending topics in depth requires greater facility in English hence requires more time spent by immigrants learning English. This cannot be shortened and English learners rightly ask that this extra time on English language learning be recognized in the graduation program. Accommodation is needed so immigrant students can complete and graduate before they turn 19 years.
What is required is to combine English learning with subject material so that credit is given according to topics covered. An example would be combining math with ESL.
Most immigrant students do well in math and many find B.C. curriculum easy in comparison to what they have experienced before arriving. This combining language with an existing skill set would put them on fast track to complete graduation requirements.
It would also remove the reason many immigrant students leave ESL programs too early: the stigma attached by immigrant parents to their children being in “ESL” or, in current jargon “English Language Learning.”
Ken Denike, trustee, Vancouver Board of Education
Sophia Woo, trustee, Vancouver Board of Education
