| Q: |
What is a foreign language immersion program? |
| A: |
It is a method of foreign language instruction in which the regular curriculum is taught through the medium of the language. The foreign language, English in this case, is the vehicle for content instruction. Total immersion is the most effective way of developing foreign language proficiency. |
| Q: |
What are the goals of Sonlight's immersion program? |
| A: |
To give students a practical education while cultivating self-respect and a thinking mind
To help students develop a high level of proficiency in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing the English language
To provide an opportunity to learn in a Christian atmosphere
To use the opportunity of listening ears and open hearts to teach God's Word to students and their families |
| Q: |
At what grade level is it best to begin an immersion program? |
| A: |
Research indicates that the ability and achievement level of pupils who enter immersion at an early grade level (preschool, kindergarten, or first grade) are higher than those who begin later. |
| Q: |
How are Sonlight's pupils chosen? |
| A: |
Sonlight only accepts 30 new preschool students each year. Students are not usually accepted into higher grades, except under special circumstances. Sonlight's policy is to open registration in the preschool class to siblings of students already enrolled. If there are still available places after siblings have registered, registration is then opened to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. |
| Q: |
Is there a way for new students to enter the on-going program? |
| A: |
Yes, buy we reserve the right to place the child in the class that best suits his or her ability. In this way, a teacher will not be forced to dilute the level of instruction to accommodate a new student's needs. |
| Q: |
Where do you get materials for use in the program? |
| A: |
We use the A BEKA Christian school curriculum as a basis. We supplement with other American texts, trade books, magazines, and manipulatives. |
| Q: |
Who can teach at Sonlight Academy? |
| A: |
Sonlight is looking for committed Christians with educational experience and/or degrees to join our teacher team. We need Christians who want to invest their lives in the lives of Haiti's children. The students we work with on a daily basis are incredible. We feel the hope of Haiti lies in its youth.
If you would like more information about Sonlight Academy or available teaching positions, please contact Carmen Niehaus at carmen@sonlightministries.org. |
