Cutting-Edge Tools Help Carlsbad Students Learn English

Arabic. Chinese. Dutch. Farsi. French. Japanese Lithuanian. Spanish. Vietnamese. For four weeks this summer, nearly 300 K-8 students who speak these and other languages at home are accelerating their English Language Learning (ELL) skills at ’s Summer School ELL Academy being held at under the direction of Summer School Principal Joyce Vallone.

The eager students’ learning experiences are enhanced through iPads, iTouches, computers and SmartBoards. According to Data and Assessment Specialist Sharon St. Clair, the 70 iPads, which were obtained through a Microsoft Settlement, have propelled the students forward and will help them immensely this fall as they enter grades 1-9. She explains, “As their language skills progress, they become better able to succeed in all of their academic classes. This cutting-edge, technology-based instruction not only engages students, but also allows differentiation. The kids can learn at their own speed and at their specific ability level.”

Student Kimberly Mojica confides, “First I had to learn how to use the iPad, but it didn’t take long. I like being able to record and then play back what I’ve said. It helps me learn how to speak right. Speaking is the hardest part of learning English for me.”

Classmate Daniel Santiago says, “The apps make learning easier and really fun. We do stuff like Grammar Jammer and Scramble. It’s like playing games, but we’re learning everything about English, including how to spell. Knowing the right words helps me talk to my friends who don’t speak Spanish. It will help me in school next year.”

The Summer School Academy is made possible through the District’s Title III Plan for English Learners.