Keeping the Language Focus in Content-Based ESL Instruction Through Proactive Curriculum-Planning

Abstract

For content-based instruction (CBI) to work to its maximum potential, a concerted planning effort must be made to address language objectives, combined with effective instructional strategies that target and assess student performance in relation to those objectives. In this article, after considering various models of content-language integration, we propose a flexible and dynamic planning model for content-language integration. This model has been helpful in our work with ESL teachers learning to conceptualize lesson planning and curriculum development using CBI across a variety of K-12 settings. Examples implementing the planning model are provided using a curriculum about Arctic exploration and Inuit cultures.