ESL Curriculum

English as a Second Language (ESL) Courses

The Fairfax Christian School offers a vast array of English classes that allow each student to have a customized program that ensures skills are mastered. Once students complete or place out of the ESL classes, they take honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes with our American students.

International students take comprehensive placement tests when they arrive at the Fairfax Christian School. They are then placed in the appropriate classes for their ESL classes in reading, writing and speech. Students are placed in science, history and Bible classes based on the their reading and comprehension level.

Placement tests in mathematics are also given. Students take their mathematics classes with the American students. These include classes in basic arithmetic, Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry, Advanced Mathematics (Pre-Calculus, Functions, Analytical Geometry) and AP Calculus BC.

Required courses in physical education and electives of the student’s choice are taken with the American students.

ESL Courses Offered

After students complete or place out of ESL courses, they take courses with our American students. Students must have an 80 on the TOEFL iBT to completely place out of ESL classes.

Reading with Phonics (Levels One through Level Six)

Students begin with basic phonics, a systematic approach to the English language, and focus on comprehension with oral and silent reading. Spelling and vocabulary are integrated into the program. Level six is equal to university level reading.

Grammar and Writing (Levels One through Level Six)

Students begin with basic grammar skills and end with complex research and writing that will prepare them to write creative and research papers at a university level.

Speech (Levels One through Level Four)

Proper pronunciation and diction are emphasized in theses courses that include oral drill, oral presentation and oral debate. Students are taught to express themselves and make oral arguments in English.

ESL Bible – The Foundation of Western Civilization

Students are not required to be Christians to attend the Fairfax Christian School. This introductory course, taught for students with limited skills, gives international students a working knowledge of the Bible. Students learn Biblical principles that influenced western thinking.

ESL History

These courses, taught for students with limited English skills, allow ESL students to begin to explore both American and World history from an American perspective.

ESL Science

Designed for students with limited English skills, students can study science with hands-on classes. This allows students who do not yet have their English skills on grade level to take science and have a solid introduction to an American-style science class.

TOEFL Prep (Level One and Level Two)

Students prepare for the TOEFL iBT examination (Test of English as a Foreign Language). This exam is required for all international students for admission into top English speaking universities worldwide. The classes have an intensive review for reading comprehension, vocabulary with idioms and Greek and Latin roots, as well as writing skills and oral speaking.

American Culture

In this course on cultural literacy, students gain a competitive advantage by having a working knowledge of American culture. Students review the highlights of American history and geography and understand the fundamentals of American politics, sports, art, music and customs especially those which are referenced most in popular culture. They learn what movies and television shows to watch and why they will improve their cultural literacy. They also have a comprehensive study of American etiquette.

American Capitalism

The free-market is the foundation of American Capitalism. Students study the basic economic principles that have led to the success of American capitalism. Students learn to write business plans, marketing plans and have interactive projects.

Sample Schedules

There are over 120 classes offered every day at the Fairfax Christian School. A student’s placement will vary depending on grade, skill levels and interest.

Sample schedule for an 8th grade international student with few English skills:

1st Period: ESL Reading with Phonics - level one
2nd Period: ESL Grammar and Writing - level one
3rd Period: Algebra 1
4th Period: ESL Bible – The Foundation of Western Civilization
5th Period: ESL American History
Lunch
6th Period: Physical Education
7th Period: ESL Science
8th Period: ESL Speech – level one

Sample schedule for an 11th grade international student who has studied English before coming to the Fairfax Christian School:

1st Period: Advanced Mathematics
2nd Period: AP Chemistry
3rd Period: English with American Literature
4th Period: Old Testament Bible
5th Period: TOEFL Prep – level two
Lunch
6th Period: AP Microeconomics
7th Period: American Culture
8th Period: Speech and Debate