ESL Curriculum

Many US schools and programs have ready-made ESL (English as a Second Language) curricula that the teachers need to follow. Planning a proper ESL curriculum helps you know what course needs to be taught, it saves time, helps you track your students’ progress, and helps you get the best out of your students.

ESL Curriculum Components

1. Introduction (5-10 minutes)
2. Development or input (15-20 minutes)
3. Review or output (15-20 minutes)

Level-Based ESL Curriculum

• Beginner level (no or very little knowledge of English) – reading, writing, speaking and listening
• Elementary level A1 (students understand basic phrases and instructions) – focus on grammar
• Upper elementary level A2 (students can participate in a simple conversation and uses vocabulary) – more vocabulary activities
• Lower intermediate level A2 – B1 (students can read and write simple texts and are able to participate in basic conversations) focus on new topics
• Intermediate level B1 – B2 (students participate in spontaneous conversations but have problems with grammar and vocabulary) – focus both on grammar and vocabulary
• Upper-intermediate level B2 (students can speak fluently and interact with native speakers) – focus on professional and business topics
• Advanced level C1 (students can produce complex texts and use the language in professional, academic, and social settings, and can also prepare reports on various subjects) – focus on advanced speaking and listening skills
• Proficiency level C2 – learners master the language at the nearly native level.

Tips for building an ESL curriculum

• Start small
• Have clear learning objectives
• The curriculum should be age-appropriate
• Know your students’ purpose for learning
• Know the learning style of your students
• It should be interactive
• It should be practical