The ESL endorsement as a state license allows the holder to teach English as a Second Language in all public schools. The ESL certificate program requires 15 credit hours of instruction in linguistics, language acquisition, developing literacy skills for the second language learner, methods and theory of bilingual/ESL education and the structure of American English.
Students will take courses in:
Linguistics– 56:300:570 (3 credits)
A study of language and cultures, including techniques for analyzing linguistic structures. This course will also examine sociolinguistics and writing systems.(NJPST 4 & 5)
Second Language Acquisition – 56:300:571 (3 credits)
This course focuses on the principles of second language learning and will explore the major themes and theories in second language acquisition and the learning impact in a classroom setting. Students will gain a more accurate perspective of the complexity of factors that shape language. (NJPST 1, 2, 6, 7, 8)
Developmental Literacy for Multilingual Learners 56:300:572 (3 credits)
This course explores the reading, writing, and language development of multilingual learners at all levels. Students will explore various program models to build academic language and literacy, including immersion, transitional bilingual, and various ESL services. Students will create engaging literacy environments and culturally responsive teaching techniques to meet the needs of students of varying background and language proficiencies. (NJPST 1, 2, 3, 7, 8)
Methods & Theory of Teaching Multilingual Learners - 56:300:573 (3 credits)
This course explores the historical foundation of Bilingual and ESL Learners, and will investigate current research in effective, current pedagogical strategies for teaching Multilingual Learners in a variety of contexts. Students will also learn about theoretical and applied methods for choosing appropriate materials. (NJPST 3,4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11)
American English - 56:300:574 (3 credits)
A study of modern American English which will analyze grammar, including phonetics, morphology, syntax, and semantics. (NJPST 4 & 5)
The Learning Outcomes for the program include:
- Students will learn how to assess second language learners and teach them effectively in the aspects of language including speaking, listening, reading and writing.
- Students will create, evaluate, and use English language teaching materials.
- Students will explore how languages function historically, socially, and culturally.
- Students will gain in-depth knowledge of the structure of American English.
- Students will learn how to develop the literacy skills of the second language learner.
