English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) (Grades K–5)

ESOL Program Goal

In order to strengthen and develop the academic language skills of our non-native English speakers in the elementary school (grades K-5, Chofu campus), an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program is offered. It is hoped that within two to three years of receiving this ESOL support, the student will be able to fully participate in the academically challenging program offered in the homeroom without additional English assistance.

ESOL Program Overview

The ESOL program provides positive learning experiences that reinforce spoken and written communication in a low-anxiety, low-pressure environment that supports all attempts the students make in their progress towards English fluency. The school day for the ESOL student includes both regular homeroom classes and small, individualized pull-out ESOL classes. These groups range in size from two to eight students. Students are grouped by English language ability as much as possible. Through peer interaction in the homeroom with native English speakers and small group work with other ESOL learners in the ESOL class, students are provided with an optimal environment for second language acquisition. Kindergarten ESOL students receive support beginning with the second semester.

Most ESOL students do not join the Japanese language instruction program as it conflicts with one of the designated ESOL periods. Other pull-out times may occur during the Language Arts sessions (reading, writing, spelling) of the homeroom program. This allows for minimal interruption to the student’s regular program.

Admission to ASIJ and the ESOL Program

Students are initially assessed through the Admissions Office in consultation with the ESOL specialist prior to being admitted to ASIJ. Admission to the ESOL program is based on the assessment results and space availability in both the grade level and ESOL support program.

ESOL Program Tuition

If a student is deemed ready to exit the program at the end of a quarter, pro-rated fees will be reimbursed.