English as a Second Language Week celebrated across Ontario
"Since most new Canadians arrive with little or no comprehension of English, feelings of isolation often results, which inevitably leads to further issues that impact not only the individual, but also society," says
ESL Week has been declared by many communities across Ontario including:
Many of the TESL Ontario affiliates in the participating centres have organized activities including poster and writing contests, film festivals and art displays, in honour of ESL Week.
"ESL Week was created to raise awareness of the important role of ESL education in our society," adds Tilson. "It is also an opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of our ESL instructors and teachers in helping new Canadians. An ESL instructor assists adult newcomers by teaching language skills, as well as providing support and counselling to ease their transition into Canadian society. ESL instructors are often their cultural interpreters. As well, teachers in Ontario elementary and secondary schools provide language programs to ensure that all students develop a level of proficiency in English required for success at school, then post-secondary education and, later, in the workforce."
A feature of ESL Week is the TESL Ontario conference that takes place December 10-12, 2009, in
TESL Ontario is the association and certifying body for non-credit adult ESL instructors in Ontario. TESL Ontario represents more than 4,400 ESL professionals working in elementary and secondary schools; colleges and universities; private schools; and LINC and ESL sites across the province. The organization has developed expertise in areas of teacher certification, and professional and curriculum development. For more information, visit www.teslontario.org.
For further information: For further information: Shannon Skinner, Public Relations, TESL Ontario, (416) 576-8809, [email protected]; Renate Tilson, Executive Director, TESL Ontario, (416) 593-4243 ext. 4, [email protected]
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