English as a Second Language

English As A Second Language (ESL) AT TSS

Thornhill Secondary School (TSS) is now home to a diverse student population. This diversity provides students with many opportunities for cultural enrichment and for global learning.

This diversity also means that many of our students are learning the language of instruction at the same time that they are learning the curriculum.

The English as a Second Language (ESL) curriculum is designed to ensure that each English language learner (ELL) has the maximum opportunity to become proficient in English and achieve the high levels of literacy that are expected of all Ontario students.

The ESL curriculum is based on the belief that a broad proficiency in English is essential to students’ success in both their social and academic lives, and to the ability to become good citizens. The curriculum is designed to provide ELLs with the knowledge and skills that they need to achieve this.

Thornhill SS offers a wide variety of ESL to help our students achieve success.

Adapted from: ESL & ELD Ontario Curriculum 2007

ESL Program

English language learners in any grade may be placed in appropriate ESL courses. Since many of the classes include students aged between 14 and 20 years old, the topics and activities are selected to appeal to a variety of students.

There are five (5) open levels of ESL at TSS. These courses may be substituted for up to three compulsory English credit requirements.

Additional ESL credits may be counted as optional credits for diploma purposes.

ESL Courses

These courses have been designed for an ELL who has had opportunities to develop language and literacy skills in their own language appropriate to their age or grade level. These learners may be entering from grade 8 or from another country. Newcomers are assessed at the YRDSB Reception Centre. Grade 8 students are placed in ESL courses based on their grade 8 teachers’ recommendations and/or an assessment by the secondary ESL teacher.

Hand in Hand Club

The Hand-in-Hand Club is a very popular cultural club at TSS. Because TSS is a diverse school the club has members from the whole school (not just ESL). The club organizes numerous school events, such as VISA Orientation Days, Cultural celebrations, information sessions, and a variety of other cultural events. They act as advocates for our diverse population at T.S.S. It is a great opportunity for students to learn about different cultures, meet new friends, and gain volunteer hours. Come on out and join the Hand in Hand Club!