Final answer:
ESL programs in Texas, as per Chapter 89, should adapt grade level subject matter with consideration for language needs, allowing non-native English-speaking students to maintain academic progress while learning English.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Texas Education Law, specifically Chapter 89, the ESL (English as a Second Language) programs should primarily focus on teaching the grade level subject matter while making appropriate modifications in pacing, materials, and instruction to accommodate the language needs of the students.
These modifications are crucial to ensuring that students who are non-native English speakers do not fall behind in their academic subjects while they are learning EnglishAccording to Texas Education Law, Chapter 89, ESL programs should:
A. Have personnel fluent in the primary language of the students: Having staff who can communicate with the students in their primary language helps facilitate effective communication and understanding.
B. Require students to spend most of the day in mainstream classes: This ensures that students are exposed to the grade level subject matter and are integrated with their peers.
C. Teach the grade level subject matter, but make modifications in pacing, materials, and instruction: ESL programs aim to teach students the same grade level subject matter, but with appropriate modifications to accommodate their language proficiency level.
D. Begin language instruction orally: ESL programs typically start with oral language development to build a foundation for learning other language skills.
The example of Lucy, who benefited from bilingual education in Texas, demonstrates that the use of both English and Spanish in instructional materials and support can help students succeed academically and transition smoothly into English proficiency. The research from Johns Hopkins University supports the effectiveness of bilingual education, indicating that students taught in their native language alongside English perform better than those taught exclusively in English