NEVADA’S CONTENT STANDARDS

FOR

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE 

AND EL / CIVICS PROGRAMS

 

This project is a leadership activity funded by a grant from the Nevada State Department of Education, Workforce Investment Act, Title II (Adult Education and Family Literacy). There is no discrimination or denial of participation on the basis of gender, race, national origin, color, disability, age, or sexual orientation.

 

Last Update 1/06

 

Note: This document has been excerpted or adapted from its original format for functional purposes within the warehouse. As a result, the formatting does not match the original. To obtain the full original document and supplementary materials, please visit the state's website at: http://www.literacynet.org/nevada/standards/index.htm


Acknowledgements

 

 

Acknowledgement and gratitude are given to the following for their participation in the development of Nevada’s ESL and EL Civics Standards:

 

Claudia Bianca-DeBay, Nevada’s ABE CASAS Manager/Trainer & Instructional Resources Coordinator – member of the National CASAS Consortium Content Standards Technical Work Group

 

Meachell LaSalle, ABE/ESL. Coordinator at Great Basin College in Elko

Dawnne Ernette, ESL Instructor at Truckee Meadows Community College in Reno

Diana Stater, ESL Instructor at Carson City Adult High School in Carson City

Cheryl Tingle, ESL Instructor at Western Nevada Community College in Carson City

Martha Gustafson, Senior Program Specialist, CASAS, San Diego, California

National CASAS Consortium Content Standards Technical Advisory Project Committee

National Institute for Literacy

Colleen Sullivan, Director, NC – ESL Grant, Lake Tahoe Community College

 

The Nevada ESL Standards were developed in part by the following states’ existing standards found in the Adult Content Standards Warehouse online: (http://www.adultedcontentstandards.org:

Arizona

California

Connecticut

Florida

Iowa

Oregon

Texas

Numerous ESL Instructors throughout Nevada who provided invaluable feedback and suggestions

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

NEVADA’S CONTENT STANDARDS FOR ESL AND EL CIVICS. 1

OVERVIEW

CASAS COMPETENCIES. 8

0. Basic Communication. 8

I. Consumer Economics. 8

II. Community Resources. 11

III. Health. 12

IV. Employment 14

V. Government and Law.. 16

VI. Computation. 18

VII. Learning to Learn. 20

IIX Independent Living Skills. 21

EQUIPPED FOR THE FUTURE CONTENT STANDARDS: WHAT ADULTS NEED TO KNOW AND BE ABLE TO DO IN THE 21ST. CENTURY.. 23

Communication Skills. 23

Decision-Making Skills. 23

Interpersonal Skills. 23

Lifelong Learning Skills. 23

EQUIPPED FOR THE FUTURE CITIZEN/COMMUNITY MEMBER ROLE MAP. 24

Broad Areas of Responsibility: 24

ESL LOW BEGINNING READING, LISTENING/SPEAKING, WRITING, CIVICS AND SUPPORTING GRAMMAR.. 26

ESL Low Beginning - Reading. 26

ESL Low Beginning – Listening/Speaking. 33

ESL Low Beginning – Writing: 38

ESL Low Beginning – Supporting Grammar: 41

ESL HIGH BEGINNING READING, LISTENING/SPEAKING, WRITING, CIVICS AND SUPPORTING GRAMMAR.. 44

ESL High Beginning - Reading: 44

ESL High Beginning - Listening/Speaking: 60

ESL High Beginning - Writing: 64

ESL High Beginning – Supporting Grammar 66

ESL LOW INTERMEDIATE READING, LISTENING/SPEAKING, WRITING, CIVICS AND SUPPORTING GRAMMAR.. 68

ESL Low Intermediate – Reading. 68

ESL Low Intermediate – Listening/Speaking: 88

ESL Low Intermediate – Writing. 101

ESL Low Intermediate – Supporting Grammar 106

ESL HIGH INTERMEDIATE READING, LISTENING/SPEAKING, CIVICS, WRITING, AND SUPPORTING GRAMMAR.. 108

ESL High Intermediate - Reading. 108

ESL High Intermediate – Listening/Speaking. 135

ESL High Intermediate – Writing. 157

High Intermediate – Supporting Grammar 162

ESL LOW ADVANCED READING, LISTENING/SPEAKING, CIVICS, WRITING, AND SUPPORTING GRAMMAR.. 164

ESL Low Advanced – Reading: 164

Low Advanced – Listening/Speaking. 186

Low Advanced: Writing. 193

Low Advanced – Supporting Grammar 208

ESL HIGH ADVANCED READING, LISTENING/SPEAKING, CIVICS, WRITING, AND SUPPORTING GRAMMAR.. 210

ESL High Advanced – Reading: 210

ESL High Advanced – Listening/Speaking. 248

High Advanced: Writing. 260

High Advanced – Supporting Grammar 264


Overview: What is civics education?

 

For adult English language learners, civic education is a broad term that includes instruction about U.S. History and culture, lessons on diversity and multiculturalism, and instruction and guidance on becoming active participants in their new communities.

 

Civic participation, the way that individuals contribute to the social, political, and educational structures within their community, is an integral part of civics education. The goal of civics education, therefore, is to assist learners to understand, access, and interact responsively to their community. Significant civics content can be imparted at all ESL levels at the same time learners are acquiring English.

 

Beginning level students can learn about community, government and history through pre-reading and hands-on activities. They can alphabetize names of states, label maps, and practice sight words of agencies in their community. They can also practice their speaking and listening skills as they share their opinions about an important social or political issue. Simple games such as bingo or concentration can be played to reinforce any set of words that learners have been working on in a content unit. Names of states, presidents, or important Americans can be added to health, housing and job vocabulary.

 

Intermediate level students can participate in reading and writing activities about American culture and history. Field trips to the library to research topics on local government or bicycle safety rules followed by oral reports on what they’ve learned can provide for valuable speaking and listening skills.

 

Advanced level students can invite local officials to speak to the class, or volunteer in community organizations. They can practice their writing skills writing letters to the editor, emailing members of Congress, or researching and writing an essay about an aspect of American history or culture.

 


An important objective of civic education should be to help immigrants learn how to use the aid of experts and qualified professionals and learn the rules and procedures in order to assimilate smoothly into their new community and country. Civics instruction should provide a basis for understanding the rights and responsibilities of citizens and a framework for competent and responsible participation.

 

The Nevada Content Standards are consistent in outlining the skills for each proficiency level across the programs in the state.  They are also aligned to CASAS (Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment System) chosen by Nevada to be used by all Adult Education Programs) tests and competencies, EFF (Equipped for the Future) framework and standards that were developed by The National Institute for Literacy, and the National Reporting System which describes the levels of proficiency and provides benchmarks for standardized tests such as CASAS.

 

When planning instruction, instructors should look for ways to link the content standards within the context of learner goals and needs. The standards should be used as guidelines for identifying skills and learning contexts.

 

The Content Standards are organized  according to program type (ESL, ABE, ASE), program level (e.g., ESL Low Beginning/Basic Literacy, High Beginning, Low Intermediate, High Intermediate, Low Advanced, and High Advanced), Learning Proficiencies (reading, writing, listening/speaking, and supporting grammar), and related standards, assessments, competencies and instructional resources (NV standards, CASAS assessments, CASAS competencies, EFF standards, and program instructional resources). It is important to note that, although CASAS does not have any tests at this time (CASAS grammar tests are in development) to assess grammar, it is an important part of language acquisition and, therefore, is included.

 


The eight AEFLA-funded programs have customized manuals for their programs. Unlike this copy, their copies include a fourth column (titled “Instructional Resources”) throughout each manual that lists program-specific resources that align to every competency that aligns to every standard.

 

Competencies listed in the “Suggested CASAS Competencies That Provide Context for ESL Objectives” column indicated by an asterisk indicate competencies that are tested in the CASAS assessments. Additional competencies are presented as they, too, are aligned with the standards and offer additional instructional resources for teachers and tutors to utilize.

 

Resources (program manuals only) listed in the “Instructional Resources” column in blue indicate what materials programs already have that align to these new standards and matching competencies. Resources listed in red indicate gaps in their resources where they do not have materials that align to specific standards. Consequently, the names of materials in red are suggested materials they may want to acquire for their teachers and tutors.

 

The complete list of CASAS Competencies is included on the following pages for easy access and reference followed by an inclusive list of the EFF Standards.


CASAS COMPETENCIES

0. Basic Communication

0.1 Communicate in interpersonal interactions

0.1.1 Identify or use appropriate non-verbal behavior in a variety of situations (e.g., handshaking)
0.1.2 Identify or use appropriate language for informational purposes (e.g., to identify, describe, ask for information, state needs, command, agree or disagree, ask permission)
0.1.3 Identify or use appropriate language to influence or persuade (e.g., to caution, request, advise, persuade, negotiate)
0.1.4 Identify or use appropriate language in general social situations (e.g., to greet, introduce, thank, apologize, compliment, express pleasure or regret)
0.1.5 Identify or use appropriate classroom behavior
0.1.6 Clarify or request clarification

0.2 Communicate regarding personal information

0.2.1 Respond appropriately to common personal information questions
0.2.2 Complete a personal information form
0.2.3 Interpret or write a personal note, invitation, or letter
0.2.4 Converse about daily and leisure activities and personal interests

I. Consumer Economics

1.1 Use weights, measures, measurement scales, and money

1.1.1 Interpret recipes
1.1.2 Use the metric system (see also 1.1.4, 6.6.1, 6.6.2, 6.6.3, 6.6.4)
1.1.3 Interpret maps and graphs (see also 1.9.4, 2.2.1, 2.2.5)
1.1.4 Select, compute, or interpret appropriate standard measurement for length, width, perimeter, area, volume, height, or weight (see also 1.1.2, 6.6.1, 6.6.2, 6.6.3, 6.6.4, 6.6.5)
1.1.5 Interpret temperatures (see also 6.6.4)
1.1.6 Count, convert, and use coins and currency, and recognize symbols such as ($) and (.) (see also 6.1.1, 6.1.2, 6.1.3, 6.1.4, 6.1.5)
1.1.7 Identify product containers and interpret weight and volume
1.1.8 Compute averages (see also 6.7.5)
1.1.9 Interpret clothing and pattern sizes and use height and weight tables


1.2 Apply principles of comparison shopping in the selection of goods and services

1.2.1 Interpret advertisements, labels, charts, and price tags in selecting goods and services
1.2.2 Compare price or quality to determine the best buys for goods and services
1.2.3 Compute discounts (see also 6.4.1)
1.2.4 Compute unit pricing
1.2.5 Interpret letters, articles, and information about consumer-related topics

1.3 Understand methods and procedures used to purchase goods and services

1.3.1 Compare different methods used to purchase goods and services
1.3.2 Interpret credit applications and recognize how to use and maintain credit
1.3.3 Identify or use various methods to purchase goods and services, and make returns and exchanges
1.3.4 Use catalogs, order forms, and related information to purchase goods and services
1.3.5 Use coupons to purchase goods and services
1.3.6 Use coin-operated machines
1.3.7 Interpret information or directions to locate merchandise (see also 2.5.4)
1.3.8 Identify common food items
1.3.9 Identify common articles of clothing

1.4 Understand methods and procedures to obtain housing and related services

1.4.1 Identify different kinds of housing, areas of the home, and common household items
1.4.2 Select appropriate housing by interpreting classified ads, signs, and other information
1.4.3 Interpret lease and rental agreements
1.4.4 Interpret information to obtain, maintain, or cancel housing utilities
1.4.5 Interpret information about tenant and landlord rights
1.4.6 Interpret information about housing loans and home-related insurance
1.4.7 Interpret information about home maintenance, and communicate housing problems to a landlord (see also 1.7.4)
1.4.8 Recognize home theft and fire prevention measures

1.5 Apply principles of budgeting in the management of money

1.5.1 Interpret information about personal and family budgets
1.5.2 Plan for major purchases (see also 1.5.1)
1.5.3 Interpret bills (see also 2.1.4)


1.6 Understand consumer protection measures

1.6.1 Interpret food packaging labels (see also 1.2.1, 3.5.1)
1.6.2 Identify consumer protection resources available when confronted with fraudulent practices
1.6.3 Identify procedures the consumer can follow if merchandise or service is unsatisfactory
1.6.4 Check sales receipts

 

1.7 Understand procedures for the care, maintenance, and use of personal possessions

1.7.1 Interpret product guarantees and warranties
1.7.2 Interpret clothing care labels
1.7.3 Interpret operating instructions, directions, or labels for consumer products (see also 3.4.1)
1.7.4 Interpret maintenance procedures for household appliances and personal possessions
1.7.5 Interpret information to obtain repairs

1.8 Use banking and financial services in the community

1.8.1 Demonstrate the use of savings and checking accounts, including using an ATM
1.8.2 Interpret the procedures and forms associated with banking services, including writing checks
1.8.3 Interpret interest or interest-earning savings plans
1.8.4 Interpret information about the types of loans available through lending institutions
1.8.5 Interpret information on financial agencies and financial planning

1.9 Understand methods and procedures for the purchase and maintenance of an automobile and interpret driving regulations

1.9.1 Interpret highway and traffic signs (see also 2.2.2)
1.9.2 Identify driving regulations and procedures to obtain a driver's license (see also 2.5.7)
1.9.3 Compute mileage and gasoline consumption
1.9.4 Interpret maps related to driving (see also 1.1.3, 2.2.1, 2.2.5)
1.9.5 Interpret information related to the selection and purchase of a car
1.9.6 Interpret information related to automobile maintenance
1.9.7 Recognize what to do in case of automobile emergencies
1.9.8 Interpret information about automobile insurance


II. Community Resources

2.1 Use the telephone and telephone book

2.1.1 Use the telephone directory and related publications to locate information
2.1.2 Identify emergency numbers and place emergency calls (see also 2.5.1)
2.1.3 Interpret information about time zones (see also 2.3.1)
2.1.4 Interpret telephone billings
2.1.5 Interpret telegram rates and procedures
2.1.6 Interpret information about using a pay telephone
2.1.7 Take and interpret telephone messages, leave messages on answering machines, and interpret recorded messages (see also 4.5.4)
2.1.8 Use the telephone to make and receive routine personal and business calls

2.2 Understand how to locate and use different types of transportation and interpret related travel information

2.2.1 Ask for, give, follow, or clarify directions (see also 1.1.3, 1.9.4, 2.2.5)
2.2.2 Recognize and use signs related to transportation (see also 1.9.1)
2.2.3 Identify or use different types of transportation in the community, and interpret traffic information
2.2.4 Interpret transportation schedules and fares
2.2.5 Use maps relating to travel needs (see also 1.1.3, 1.9.4, 2.2.1)

2.3 Understand concepts of time and weather

2.3.1 Interpret clock time (see also 2.1.3, 6.6.6)
2.3.2 Identify the months of the year and the days of the week
2.3.3 Interpret information about weather conditions

2.4 Use postal services

2.4.1 Address letters and envelopes
2.4.2 Interpret postal rates and types of mailing services
2.4.3 Interpret postal service forms and instructions on returned mail
2.4.4 Purchase stamps and other postal items and services
2.4.5 Interpret procedures for tracing a lost letter or parcel
2.4.6 Interpret a postal money order form


2.5 Use community agencies and services

2.5.1 Locate and utilize services of agencies that provide emergency help
2.5.2 Identify how and when to obtain social and governmental services (e.g., low-income housing, Social Security, Medicare), and how to interact with service providers
2.5.3 Locate medical and health facilities in the community (see also 3.1.3)
2.5.4 Read, interpret, and follow directions found on public signs and building directories (see also 1.3.7)
2.5.5 Locate and use educational services in the community, including interpreting and writing school-related communications
2.5.6 Use library services
2.5.7 Interpret permit and license requirements (see also 1.9.2)
2.5.8 (unassigned)
2.5.9 Identify child care services in the community (see also 3.5.7)

2.6 Use leisure time resources and facilities

2.6.1 Interpret information about recreational and entertainment facilities and activities
2.6.2 Locate information in TV, movie, and other recreational listings
2.6.3 Interpret information in order to plan for outings and vacations
2.6.4 Interpret and order from restaurant and fast food menus, and compute related costs

2.7 Understand aspects of society and culture

2.7.1 Interpret information about holidays
2.7.2 Interpret information about ethnic groups, cultural groups, and language groups
2.7.3 Interpret information about social issues (see also 2.7.2)
2.7.4 Interpret information about religion
2.7.5 Interpret literary materials such as poetry and literature
2.7.6 Interpret materials related to the arts, such as fine art, music, drama, and film

III. Health

3.1 Understand how to access and utilize the health care system

3.1.1 Describe symptoms of illness, including identifying parts of the body; interpret doctor's directions
3.1.2 Identify information necessary to make or keep medical and dental appointments
3.1.3 Identify and utilize appropriate health care services and facilities, including interacting with providers (see also 2.5.3)

3.2 Understand medical and dental forms and related information

3.2.1 Fill out medical health history forms
3.2.2 Interpret immunization requirements
3.2.3 Interpret information associated with medical, dental, or life insurance
3.2.4 Ask for clarification about medical bills

3.3 Understand how to select and use medications

3.3.1 Identify and use necessary medications (see also 3.3.2, 3.3.3)
3.3.2 Interpret medicine labels (see also 3.3.1, 3.4.1)
3.3.3 Identify the difference between prescription, over-the-counter, and generic medications (see also 3.3.1.)
3.4 Understand basic health and safety procedures
3.4.1 Interpret product label directions and safety warnings (see also 1.7.3, 3.3.2)
3.4.2 Identify safety measures that can prevent accidents and injuries
3.4.3 Interpret procedures for simple first-aid
3.4.4 Interpret information about AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases (see also 3.1.1)
3.4.5 Recognize problems related to drugs, tobacco, and alcohol and identify where treatment may be obtained

3.5 Understand basic principles of health maintenance

3.5.1 Interpret nutritional and related informa­tion listed on food labels (see also 1.6.1)
3.5.2 Select a balanced diet
3.5.3 Interpret food storage information
3.5.4 Identify practices that promote dental health
3.5.5 Identify practices that promote cleanli­ness and hygiene
3.5.6 Interpret information and identify agencies that assist with family planning (see also 2.5.3, 3.1.3)
3.5.7 Identify child rearing practices and community resources that assist in developing parenting skills (see also 2.5.9)
3.5.8 Identify practices that promote mental well-being
3.5.9 Identify practices that promote physical well-being


IV. Employment

4.1 Understand basic principles of getting a job

4.1.1 Interpret governmental forms related to seeking work, such as applications for Social Security (see also 2.5.2)
4.1.2 Follow procedures for applying for a job, including interpreting and completing job applications, résumés, and letters of application
4.1.3 Identify and use sources of information about job opportunities such as job descriptions, job ads, and announce­ments, and about the workforce and job market
4.1.4 Identify and use information about training opportunities (see also 2.5.5)
4.1.5 Identify procedures involved in interviewing for a job, such as arranging for an interview, acting and dressing appropriately, and selecting appropriate questions and responses
4.1.6 Interpret general work-related vocabulary (e.g., experience, swing shift)
4.1.7 Identify appropriate behavior and attitudes for getting a job
4.1.8 Identify common occupations and the skills and education required for them
4.1.9 Identify procedures for career planning, including self-assessment

4.2 Understand wages, benefits, and concepts of employee organizations

4.2.1 Interpret wages, wage deductions, benefits, and timekeeping forms
4.2.2 Interpret information about employee organizations
4.2.3 Interpret employment contract and union agreements
4.2.4 Interpret employee handbooks, personnel policies, and job manuals

4.3 Understand work-related safety standards and procedures

4.3.1 Interpret safety signs found in the workplace (see also 3.4.1)
4.3.2 Interpret work safety manuals and related information
4.3.3 Identify safe work procedures and common safety equipment, including wearing safe work attire
4.3.4 Report unsafe working conditions and work- related accidents, injuries, and damages

 

4.4 Understand concepts and materials related to job performance and training

4.4.1 Identify appropriate behavior, attire, attitudes, and social interaction, and other factors that affect job retention and advancement
4.4.2 Identify appropriate skills and education for keeping a job and getting a promotion
4.4.3 Interpret job-related signs, charts, diagrams, forms, and procedures, and record information on forms, charts, checklists, etc. (see also 4.2.1, 4.3.1, 4.3.4)
4.4.4 Interpret job responsibilities and performance reviews (see also 4.4.2)
4.4.5 Identify job training needs and set learning goals
4.4.6 Interpret work specifications and quality standards
4.4.7 Demonstrate the ability to apply or transfer skills learned in one job situation to another
4.4.8 Interpret job-related technical informa­tion, such as from service manuals and training classes

4.5 Effectively utilize common workplace technology and systems

4.5.1 Identify common tools, equipment, machines, and materials required for one's job
4.5.2 Demonstrate simple keyboarding skills
4.5.3 Demonstrate ability to use a filing system or other ordered system (e.g., coded or numbered)
4.5.4 Demonstrate use of common business machines (see also 2.1.7, 2.1.8)
4.5.5 Demonstrate basic computer skills and use of common software programs, including reading or interpreting computer-generated printouts
4.5.6 Demonstrate ability to select, set up and use tools and machines in
order to accomplish a task, while operating within a technological system

4.5.7 Demonstrate ability to identify and resolve problems with machines and to follow proper maintenance procedures

4.6 Communicate effectively in the workplace

4.6.1 Follow, clarify, give, or provide feedback to instructions; give and respond appropriately to criticism
4.6.2 Interpret and write work-related correspondence, including notes, memos, letters, and e-mail (see also 4.4.3)
4.6.3 Interpret written workplace announce­ments and notices (see also 4.4.1, 4.4.3)
4.6.4 Report progress on activities, status of assigned tasks, and problems and other situations affecting job completion (see also 4.3.4)
4.6.5 Select and analyze work-related informatio­n for a given purpose and communicate it to others orally or in writing

4.7 Effectively manage workplace resources

4.7.1 Interpret or prepare a work-related budget, including projecting costs, keeping detailed records, and tracking status of expenditures and revenue
4.7.2 Identify or demonstrate effective management of material resources, including acquisition, storage, and distribution
4.7.3 Identify or demonstrate effective management of human resources, including assessing skills, making appropriate work assignments, and monitoring performance
4.7.4 Identify, secure, evaluate, process, and/or store information needed to perform tasks or keep records

4.8 Demonstrate effectiveness in working with other people

4.8.1 Demonstrate ability to work cooperative­ly with others as a member of a team, contributing to team efforts, maximizing the strengths of team members, promoting effective group interaction, and taking personal responsibility for accomplishing goals
4.8.2 Identify ways to learn from others and to help others learn job-related concepts and skills
4.8.3 Demonstrate effective communication skills in working with customers and clients
4.8.4 Demonstrate initiative and resourceful­ness in meeting the needs and solving the problems of customers
4.8.5 Demonstrate leadership skills, including effectively communicating ideas or positions, motivating and respecting others, and responsibly challenging existing policies
4.8.6 Demonstrate negotiation skills in resolving differences, including presenting facts and arguments, recognizing differing points of view, offering options, and making compromises
4.8.7 Identify and use effective approaches to working within a multicultural workforce, including respecting cultural diversity, avoiding stereotypes, and recognizing concerns of members of other ethnic and gender groups

4.9 Understand how social, organizational, and technological systems work, and operate effectively within them

4.9.1 Identify the formal organizational structure of one's work environment
4.9.2 Demonstrate how a system's structures relate to its goals
4.9.3 Identify sources of information and assistance, and access resources within a system
4.9.4 Assess the operation of a system or organization and make recommendations for improvement, including development of new systems

V. Government and Law

5.1 Understand voting and the political process

5.1.1 Identify voter qualifications
5.1.2 Interpret a voter registration form
5.1.3 Interpret a ballot
5.1.4 Interpret information about electoral politics and candidates
5.1.5 Interpret information about special interest groups
5.1.6 Communicate one's opinions on a current issue

5.2 Understand historical and geographical information

5.2.1 Interpret information about U.S. history
5.2.2 Identify or interpret U.S. historical documents
5.2.3 Interpret information about world history
5.2.4 Interpret information about U.S. states, cities, geographical features, and points of interest
5.2.5 Interpret information about world geography

5.3 Understand an individual's legal rights and responsibilities and procedures for obtaining legal advice

5.3.1 Interpret common laws and ordinances, and legal forms and documents
5.3.2 Identify individual legal rights and procedures for obtaining legal advice (see also 5.3.1)
5.3.3 Interpret basic court procedures
5.3.4 Interpret laws affecting door-to-door sales (see 1.6.2)
5.3.5 Interpret information about traffic tickets
5.3.6 Interpret information or identify requirements for establishing residency and/or obtaining citizenship
5.3.7 Identify common infractions and crimes, and legal consequences
5.3.8 Identify procedures for reporting a crime

5.4 Understand information about taxes

5.4.1 Interpret income tax forms
5.4.2 Compute or define sales tax
5.4.3 Interpret tax tables (see also 5.4.1, 5.4.2)
5.4.4 Interpret tax information from articles and publications

5.5 Understand governmental activities

5.5.1 Interpret information about international affairs
5.5.2 Interpret information about legislative activities
5.5.3 Interpret information about judicial activities
5.5.4 Interpret information about executive activities
5.5.5 Interpret information about military activities
5.5.6 Interpret information about law enforce­ment activities
5.5.7 Interpret information about local policy- making groups
5.5.8 Identify local, state and federal government le

5.6 Understand civic responsibilities and activities

5.6.1 Interpret information about neighbor­hood or community problems and their solutions
5.6.2 Interpret information about civic organizations and public service groups
5.6.3 Interpret civic responsibilities, such as voting, jury duty, taxes

5.7 Understand environmental and science- related issues

5.7.1 Interpret information about environ­men­tal issues
5.7.2 Interpret information related to physics, including energy
5.7.3 Interpret information about earth-related sciences
5.7.4 Interpret information about new technologies and scientific issues
5.8 Understand concepts of economics
5.8.1 Interpret economic information and statistics
5.8.2 Interpret information on economic issues and trends
5.8.3 Interpret information on world economic systems

VI. Computation

6.0 Demonstrate pre-computation skills

6.0.1 Identify and classify numeric symbols
6.0.2 Count and associate numbers with quantities, including recognizing correct number sequencing
6.0.3 Identify information needed to solve a given problem
6.0.4 Determine appropriate operation to apply to a given problem
6.0.5 Demonstrate use of a calculator

6.1 Compute using whole numbers

6.1.1 Add whole numbers
6.1.2 Subtract whole numbers
6.1.3 Multiply whole numbers
6.1.4 Divide whole numbers
6.1.5 Perform multiple operations using whole numbers

6.2 Compute using decimal fractions

6.2.1 Add decimal fractions
6.2.2 Subtract decimal fractions
6.2.3 Multiply decimal fractions
6.2.4 Divide decimal fractions
6.2.5 Perform multiple operations using decimal fractions
6.2.6 Convert decimal fractions to common fractions or percents

6.3 Compute using fractions

6.3.1 Add common or mixed fractions
6.3.2 Subtract common or mixed fractions
6.3.3 Multiply common or mixed fractions
6.3.4 Divide common or mixed fractions
6.3.5 Perform multiple operations using common or mixed fractions
6.3.6 Convert common or mixed fractions to decimal fractions or percents
6.3.7 Identify or calculate equivalent fractions

6.4 Compute with percents, rate, ratio, and proportion

6.4.1 Apply a percent to determine amount of discount (see also 1.2.3)
6.4.2 Apply a percent in a context not involving money
6.4.3 Calculate percents
6.4.4 Convert percents to common, mixed, or decimal fractions
6.4.5 Use rate to compute increase or decrease
6.4.6 Compute using ratio or proportion (see also 6.4.5)

6.5 Use expressions, equations, and formulas

6.5.1 Recognize and evaluate simple consumer formulas
6.5.2 Recognize and apply simple geometric formulas
6.5.3 Recognize and apply simple algebraic formulas
6.5.4 Recognize and evaluate logical statements

6.6 Demonstrate measurement skills (see also 1.1)

6.6.1 Convert units of U.S. standard measure­ment and metric system (see also 1.1.2, 1.1.4)
6.6.2 Recognize, use, and measure linear dimensions, geometric shapes, or angles (see also 1.1.2, 1.1.4)
6.6.3 Measure area and volume of geometric shapes (see also 1.1.2, 1.1.4)
6.6.4 Use or interpret measurement instru­ments, such as rulers, scales, gauges, and dials(see also 1.1.2, 1.1.4, 1.1.5, 4.3.3, 4.4.3)
6.6.5 Interpret diagrams, illustrations, and scale drawings (see also 1.1.4, 4.4.3)
6.6.6 Calculate with units of time
6.6.7 Solve measurement problems in stipulated situations
6.6.8 Interpret mechanical concepts or spatial relationships
6.6.9 Use or interpret switches and controls

6.7 Interpret data from graphs and compute averages

6.7.1 Interpret data given in a line graph (see also 1.1.3)
6.7.2 Interpret data given in a bar graph (see also 1.1.3)
6.7.3 Interpret data given in a picture graph
6.7.4 Interpret data given in a circle graph (see also 1.1.3)
6.7.5 Compute averages, medians, or modes (see also 1.1.8)


6.8 Use statistics and probability

6.8.1 Interpret statistical information used in news reports and articles
6.8.2 Interpret statements of probability

6.9 Use estimation and mental arithmetic

6.9.1 Use computation short cuts
6.9.2 Estimate answers

VII. Learning to Learn

7.1 Identify or practice effective organizational and time management skills in accomplishing goals

7.1.1 Identify and prioritize personal, educational, and workplace goals (see also 4.4.5)
7.1.2 Demonstrate an organized approach to achieving goals, including identifying and prioritizing tasks and setting and following an effective schedule
7.1.3 Demonstrate personal responsibility and motivation in accomplishing goals
7.1.4 Establish, maintain, and utilize a physical system of organization, such as notebooks, files, calendars, folders, and checklists (see also 4.5.2)

7.2 Demonstrate ability to use thinking skills

7.2.1 Identify and paraphrase pertinent information
7.2.2 Analyze a situation, statement, or process, identifying component elements and causal and part/whole relationships
7.2.3 Make comparisons, differentiating among, sorting, and classifying items, information, or ideas
7.2.4 Identify or make inferences through inductive and deductive reasoning to hypothesize, predict, conclude, and synthesize; distinguish fact from opinion, and determine what is mandatory and what is discretionary
7.2.5 Evaluate a situation, statement, or process, assembling information and providing evidence, making judgments, examining assumptions, and identifying contradictions
7.2.6 Generate ideas using divergent (brainstorming) and convergent (focus) approaches, and also through creative imagination
7.2.7 Identify factors involved in making decisions, including considering goals, constraints, and consequences, and weighing alternatives


7.3 Demonstrate ability to use problem solving skills

7.3.1 Identify a problem and its possible causes
7.3.2 Devise and implement a solution to an identified problem
7.3.3 Evaluate the outcome of an implemented solution and suggest modifications to the solution as needed
7.3.4 Utilize problem solving strategies, such as breaking down the problem into component parts and generating alternative or creative solutions

7.4 Demonstrate study skills

7.4.1 Identify or utilize effective study strategies
7.4.2 Take notes or write a summary or an outline
7.4.3 Identify, utilize, or create devices or processes for remembering information
7.4.4 Identify or utilize appropriate informational resources, including the Internet (see also 4.9.3)
7.4.5 Use reference materials, such as dictionaries and encyclopedias
7.4.6 Use indexes and tables of contents
7.4.7 Identify or utilize test-taking skills
7.4.8 Interpret visual representations, such as symbols, blueprints, flowcharts, and schematics (see also 6.6.5)
7.4.9 Identify personal learning style

7.5 Understand aspects of and approaches to effective personal management

7.5.1 Identify personal values, qualities, interests, abilities, and aptitudes
7.5.2 Identify or use strategies to develop a positive attitude and self-image, and self-esteem
7.5.3 Identify or use strategies to cope with negative feedback
7.5.4 Identify sources of stress, and resources for stress reduction
7.5.5 Identify personal, family, and work responsibilities, and ways to accommo­date them and deal with related problems
7.5.6 Identify or use strategies for communi­cating more successfully
7.5.7 Identify constructive ways of dealing with change, including showing flexibility and adaptability, and updating skills

IIX Independent Living Skills

8.1 Perform self-care skills

8.1.1 Recognize and/or demonstrate hygiene and grooming skills (see 3.5.5)
8.1.2 Recognize and/or demonstrate dressing skills
8.1.3 Recognize and/or demonstrate dining skills and manners
8.1.4 Recognize and/or demonstrate selection and care of clothing and personal property

8.2 Perform home-care skills

8.2.1 Recognize and/or demonstrate meal and snack preparation tasks and activities (see 1.1.1, 3.5.2)
8.2.2 Recognize and/or demonstrate dishwashing and meal clean-up activities (see 3.5.5)
8.2.3 Recognize and/or demonstrate housekeeping and house cleaning tasks
8.2.4 Recognize and/or demonstrate laundry skills and related clothing-care skills (see 1.7.2, 1.7.3)
8.2.5 Recognize and/or demonstrate yard and garden tasks and activities
8.2.6 Recognize and/or demonstrate general household repair and maintenance (see 1.4.7, 1.7.4)

8.3 Use support resources to assist in maintaining independence and achieving community integration

8.3.1 Identify and interact with persons in the home environment who can provide support in achieving goals (e.g. family, friends, caregivers)
8.3.2 Identify and interact with persons in the community who can provide support in achieving goals (e.g. neighbors, contacts from human service agencies and recreation facilities)


EQUIPPED FOR THE FUTURE CONTENT STANDARDS: WHAT ADULTS NEED TO KNOW AND BE ABLE TO DO IN THE 21ST. CENTURY

 

 

 

Communication Skills

 

 

Decision-Making Skills

 

 

Interpersonal Skills

 

 

Lifelong Learning Skills

 

 


EQUIPPED FOR THE FUTURE CITIZEN/COMMUNITY MEMBER ROLE MAP

Effective citizens and community members take informed action to make a positive difference in their lives, communities, and world.

Broad Areas of Responsibility:

 

Become and stay informed

Form and express opinions and ideas

Work together

Take action to strengthen communities

Citizens and community members find and use information to identify and solve problems and contribute to the community

Citizens and community members develop a personal voice and use it individually and as a group

Citizens and community members interact with other people to get things done toward a common purpose

Citizens and community members exercise their rights and responsibilities as individuals and as members of groups to improve the world around them

Key Activities:

Key Activities:

Key Activities:

Key Activities:

Identify, monitor, and anticipate problems, community needs, strengths, and resources for yourself and others

 

Recognize and understand human, legal, and civic rights and responsibilities for yourself and others

 

Figure out how the system that affects an issue works

 

Identify how to have an impact and recognize that individuals can make a difference

 

 

 

 

Find, interpret, analyze, and use diverse sources of information, including personal experience

 

Identify how to have an impact and recognize that individuals can make a difference

 

Find, interpret, analyze, and use diverse sources of information, including personal experience

Strengthen and express a sense of self that reflects personal history, values, beliefs, and roles in the larger community

 

Learn from others’ experiences and ideas

 

Communicate so that others understand

 

Reflect on and reevaluate your own opinions and ideas

 

Strengthen and express a sense of self that reflects personal history, values, beliefs, and roles in the larger community

 

 

 

Learn from others’ experiences and ideas

 

Communicate so that others understand

 

Reflect on and reevaluate your own opinions and ideas

 

 

 

Strengthen and express a sense of self that reflects personal history, values, beliefs, and roles in the larger community

 

Learn from others’ experiences and ideas

 

Communicate so that others understand

 

Reflect on and reevaluate your own opinions and ideas

Get involved in the community and get others involved

 

Respect others and work to eliminate discrimination and prejudice

 

Define common values, visions, and goals

 

Participate in group processes and decision making

 

Get involved in the community and get others involved

 

Respect others and work to eliminate discrimination and prejudice

 

Define common values, visions, and goals

 

Participate in group processes and decision making

 

Get involved in the community and get others involved

 

Respect others and work to eliminate discrimination and prejudice

 

Define common values, visions, and goals

 

Participate in group processes and decision making

Help yourself and others

 

Educate others

 

Influence decision makers and hold them accountable

 

Provide leadership within the community

 

 

Help yourself and others

 

Educate others

 

Influence decision makers and hold them accountable

 

Provide leadership within the community

 

 

Help yourself and others

 

Educate others

 

Influence decision makers and hold them accountable

 

Provide leadership within the community

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

ESL LOW BEGINNING READING, LISTENING/SPEAKING, WRITING, CIVICS AND SUPPORTING GRAMMAR

 

ESL Low Beginning - Reading

 

NRS Level 2

CASAS Level A

CASAS Scale Score Range

181 - 190

 

CASAS Skill Level Descriptors:

Individual can read numbers and letters and some common sight words. May be able to sound out simple words. Can read and write some familiar words and phrases, but has a limited understanding of connected prose in English.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASAS Appraisals:

ESL  Form 20

 

CASAS Pre/Post Tests:

ECS  11, 12

Life and Work 81, 82

 

Reading for Citizenship Series, Forms 951R, 952R, 951RX, 952RX

 

 

 

Related EFF Standards

 to all Reading Content Standards:

 

  • Read with understanding: purpose integrated with prior knowledge, strategies, comprehension, analysis of information
  • Cooperate with others
  • Take responsibility for learning

 

EFF Citizenship/Community Member Role Map:

  • Become and stay informed: find and use information to identify and solve problems and contribute to the community

 

  • Form and express opinions and ideas: develop a personal voice and use it individually and as a group

 

  • Work together: interact with other people to get things done toward a common purpose

STANDARD 1: The student will correlate letters to phonological sounds and symbols in order to read simple words (e.g., labels, signs, parts of the body). Upon exiting the low beginning level, the student will:

 

 

ESL Objectives

 

Suggested CASAS Competencies

That Provide Context For ESL Objectives            

 

Applicable EL Civics

Objectives

Objectives

 

1.  Discriminate between uppercase and lowercase letters

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic Communication

*0.2.2 Complete a personal information form

 

Consumer Economics

1.9.1 Interpret highway and traffic signs

 

Community Resources

2.2.2 Recognize and use signs related to transportation

 

2.3.2 Identify the months of the year and the days of the week

*2.4.1 Address letters and envelopes

Health

3.2.1 Fill out medical history forms

 

3.3.2 Interpret medicine labels

 

*3.4.1 Interpret product label directions and safety warnings

 

Employment

4.1.2 Follow procedures for applying for a job,  including interpreting & completing job  applications, resumes,  & letters of recommendation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Community Resources

Complete an application to agencies that provide identification cards such as the DMV and various Consulate offices

 


 

2.  Discriminate number words for  1 – 100

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic Communication

*0.2.2 Complete a personal information form

 

Consumer Economics

*1.2.1 Interpret ads, labels, char*1.2.1 Interpret ads, labels, charts, & price tags in selecting goods & service tags in selecting goods & services

 

*1.6.1 Interpret food packaging labels

 

*1.7.3 Interpret operating instructions, directions, or  labels for consumer  products

 

 

Community Resources

Complete an application to agencies that provide identification cards such as the DMV and various Consulate offices

 

 

 

 

3.  Relate phonological sounds to letters (sound/symbol correspondence)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Relate phonological sounds to letters (sound/symbol correspondence)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Relate phonological sounds to letters (sound/symbol correspondence)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consumer Economics

1.3.7 Interpret information or directions to locate merchandise

 

1.3.8 Identify common food items

 

1.3.9 Identify common articles of clothing

 

1.6.1 Interpret food packaging labels

 

1.7.2 Interpret clothing care labels

 

1.7.3 Interpret operating instructions, directions, or labels for consumer products

 

1.9.1 Interpret highway & traffic signs

 

 

Community Resources

2.2.2 Recognize & use signs related to transportation

 

2.2.4 Interpret transportation schedules & fares

 

2.3.2 Identify months of the year & days of the week

 

2.5.4 Read, interpret, & follow directions found on public signs & building directories

 

Health

*3.3.1 Identify & use necessary medications

 

3.3.2 Interpret medicine labels

 

*3.4.1 Interpret product label directions & safety  warnings

 

3.4.3 Interpret procedures for simple first aid

 

3.5.1 Interpret nutritional & related information listed  on food labels

 

Employment

*4.1.3 Identify & use sources of information about job  opportunities such as job

descriptions, job ads and announcements

 

*4.1.6 Interpret general work-related vocabulary

 

 

Employment

*4.3.1 Interpret safety signs found in the workplace

 

4.4.3 Interpret job-related signs, charts, diagrams,  forms, & procedures

 

4.5.1 Identify common tools, equipment,

machines, & materials required for one’s job

 

4.6.3 Interpret written workplace announcements and

notices

 

 

Consumer Economics

Interpret and describe methods and procedures to obtain housing and related services including low-cost community housing (e.g., read and explain  a simple renter’s agreement)

 

Identify the knowledge and skills needed to drive in all types of weather conditions

 

Cultural Awareness:

Support cultural diversity (e.g., interpret simple stories about different cultures in order to identify similarities and differences between them and your own)

 

 

 

 

 

Community Resources Access local and state agencies that specialize in immigrant rights and orientation to the new culture

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Health

Locate and access healthcare and emergency room services in the community

 

Safety:

Interpret simple literature pertaining to home safety in order to prevent unnecessary accidents

 

Recognize key warning words and symbols on labels (e.g., poison, keep out of reach of children) on household products

 

Employment

Interpret and describe methods and procedures for obtaining and retaining a job in the community

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

American School System

Involve parents in their  children’s education (e.g.,

knowledge of American holidays such as National holidays like Memorial Day and  special American  holidays like Halloween and Mother’s Day,

read simple  stories about the significance of major American holidays, identify the calendar dates of American holidays and differentiate which ones are nationally observed)

 

American History:

Demonstrate knowledge of American history through reading and interpreting simple literature on major historical events

 

 

4.  Read basic labels, words & signs with one word or symbol (e.g., restroom signs)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Read basic labels, words & signs with one word or symbol (e.g., restroom signs)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Read basic labels, words & signs with one word or symbol (e.g., restroom signs)

 

 

 

 

Consumer Economics

*1.1.6 Count, convert, & use coins & currency, & recognize symbols such as ($) and (.)

 

1.2.1 Interpret ads, labels, charts & price tags in selecting goods & services

 

1.6.1 Interpret food packaging labels

 

 

 

Consumer Economics

*1.7.3 Interpret operating instructions, directions, or labels for consumer

 products

 

1.9.1 Interpret highway & traffic signs

 

Community Resources 

 2.1.2 Identify emergency numbers

 

 2.2.2 Recognize & use signs related to transportation

 

 2.3.1 Interpret clock time

 

2.3.2 Identify months of the year and days of the week

 

Health

*3.1.2 Identify information necessary to make or keep medical & dental appointments<