Parent Guide to English Education
by Kristen Kamin and Emily Grey
Testing Your Child
How is your child's English tested in school?
- Your child will be tested using a state-wide program
- This test looks at your child's English speaking, writing, and listening
- This test will give your child's teacher information on how best to help your child learn
Why is your child tested so often?
- Your child's teacher wants to rework lessons to fit the needs of your child
- Each test gives your child's teacher different information about your child
When will your child stop getting specially-made English lessons?
- We will use the tests to tell us when your child has English skills similar to classmates
- This includes your child's English speaking, listening, and reading skills
What happens to your child after English lessons stop?
- We will go on to watch your child's English skills
- This will happen for two more years
- After two years, your child will no longer be seen as an English learner
The Teacher's Job
How will the teacher help your child?
- Teachers will be shown your child's test scores
- These scores will help them give your child specific tasks that will help their English grow
How will your child's tasks be different from classmates?
- Your child's teacher will give activities that fit the English that your child knows
- Activities will help your child practice what they know and help them learn better English skills
- Your child will still be learning the same basic content as classmates
How does your child's teacher know how to change activities for your child?
- Your child's teacher has access to people with knowledge of English education
- Many teachers work together to decide how to help your child in school
How will your child's teacher let you know about classroom concerns?
- Your child's teacher will meet with you one time every month to talk about what your child is doing
- Your child's teacher will tell you when your child is going to be tested
What if your child's teacher can not give you information in the language you speak?
- The teacher will provide a translator for school meetings
- The teacher will make an effort to help you understand everything your child is learning in school
How will your child know how well they are doing in the classroom?
- Your child's teacher will give comments on activities they completed
- These comments will be told in a way that your child can understand
- These comments will be spoken to your child or given in written form
Your Job
How will you know what your child needs help with?
- Your child's teacher will talk to you often about how your child is doing
- You should go to the meetings with your child's teacher every month
- You should ask your child what they are learning in school
What language should you speak at home?
- English does not have to be the only language spoken in your home
- It helps your child if you continue to speak in your native language
- If you can, practice English with your child
What if you can not speak English with your child's teacher?
- You have access to translators to help you understand your child's teacher during meetings
- If your child's teacher does not provide a translator, you can ask for one
What should you do to help your child's English skills?
- Talk to your child about what they are learning in school
- Ask your child's teacher questions about anything you do not understand
Why should you be involved with your child's education?
- Your child will do better in school knowing that you are involved
- When you talk with your child's teacher, it is easier for them to know how best to help your child
If you have any more questions, please contact your child's teacher or school