This exposes students to language in a meaningful context, which fosters linguistic and cognitive growth. In addition, the language is delivered at a normal pace, enabling students to acquire the natural intonation and cadence of English. When tests are given as a summative measure, they involve pictures or graphic representations to support the print, and they allow students to demonstrate their knowledge through various modalities, including drawings. Ongoing evaluation includes observations of students' language development, their interactions with others in small groups, and their participation in class discussions. Assessment becomes a tool to facilitate each student's academic development, not to compare one student to another.
Portfolios are a significant part of assessment.
Within the context of both programs, the teacher makes an effort to validate and affirm students' primary language and cultural background. This may be accomplished by providing supplementary material in students' primary language to support learning, by assigning tasks that involve family members, and by encouraging students and parents to maintain their primary language while they learn English. A positive attitude toward one's native language and culture, as well as the target language and culture, will help foster students' success in the academic world. Empowering minority students. The crosscultural language and academic development handbook.