Mar 29, 2024  
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

English Language Learners (ELL), Minor


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The English Language Learners minor is comprised of a series of courses specifically designed to prepare teachers and other professionals to work with the growing population of Maine’s English language learners. The program also prepares students from a variety of disciplines to teach and work with ELLs in national and international settings. The program addresses curriculum, cultural context, the structure of language, pedagogy, and assessment. It is meant to provide knowledge and skills regarding English language learners and their communities within a variety of contexts and occupations and helps prepare students interested in national and international opportunities such as Fulbright, Peace Corps, and graduate degrees in TOEFL/TOESL.

Track A is designed for students enrolled in an education major. It is meant to demonstrate that students have additional knowledge and skills regarding English language learners and their families to enhance their primary endorsement in K-3, K-8, 7-12, or Special Education K-8, 7-12. Upon successful completion of the certificate/minor and the required Praxis II exam, students can apply to the state for the English as a Second Language Teacher Endorsement (660), after certification in their primary endorsement area.

Track B is open to all majors and the content provides knowledge and skills that prepare completers to support English language learners in a variety of settings.

Track A


Minor for Education Majors:


Additional Requirements:


Four credits of electives from below and one field placement in an ELL Classroom - Practica or Student Teaching

Total Credits: 20, Plus Field Placement


Track B


Minor for Non-Education Majors:


Additional Requirements: 8 Credits of Electives


(see list below)

Potential Electives:

Total Credits: 20


A minimum of one third of the required credits must be earned at UMF for a minor to be awarded.

Learning Goals


  • Students will deepen their knowledge of the structure of the English language in order to better teach it to ELLs;
  • Students will learn about theories and practices for creating learning environments that support the linguistic, cultural and social diversity of ELLs;
  • Students will create, evaluate and apply EFL/ESL teaching materials;
  • Students will learn approaches, methods and techniques for fostering and assessing ELLs’ skills development (listening, speaking, reading and writing) in English.

Assessment Criteria


Students in Track A must earn a B- or better in their required courses.

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