Both commercially prepared and teacher-made materials are used. They include computer software programs, audio equipment, books, and student folders. Standardized diagnostic instruments are used in conjunction with non-standardized assessments. Language samples, oral peripheral examinations, teacher and parent observations are all considered when assessing students. Each student is evaluated throughout the year.
Daily logs serve as a consistent monitoring system.
Progress reports are sent to parents biannually. Ongoing parental contact is maintained by the specialists. In ESL, students acquire and refine both basic interpersonal communication skills and cognitive academic language skills. Thus, the four skills areas of listening, speaking, reading, and writing are addressed. Students learn skills which enhance their ability to function in mainstream classrooms, with modifications appropriate to their proficiency level in English.