In today’s interconnected world, the landscape of English language education has evolved significantly. Previously, learning English mainly focused on vocabulary building, grammar practice, or conversational skills. However, students today are more interested in understanding the core of the English language, which refers to English Language Arts.
Many parents have expressed concerns about the effectiveness of traditional English classes. Despite investing considerable time and resources, they often feel a deep sense of dissatisfaction with their children’s English proficiency, noticing a persistent gap between classroom performance and real-world language skills. The proliferation of English learning programs, while ostensibly providing more options, has in fact muddied the waters regarding what students truly need to achieve genuine language mastery. As a result, it led to confusion about what students need, how they should learn to make progress, and the purpose of different learning methods. As a result, educational outcomes sometimes fall short of expectations.
After consulting with numerous parents at Everest Education (E2), we found that some have begun to explore English Language Arts (ELA) for their children. However, this remains a minority, as most parents still confuse ELA with basic conversational English. Many believe that proficiency in conversational English, IELTS, TOEIC, or TOEFL is sufficient. But is that really enough for students to feel confident in an international learning environment? Or do they need a broader and more comprehensive understanding of the language they are studying to grasp nuances and use it accurately in specific contexts? ELA is the answer for this concern!
Early exposure to an English Language Arts curriculum helps students develop essential skills such as reading comprehension, essay writing, and analytical thinking. Simply put, English Language Arts is academic English for students, taught entirely in English, aimed at deepening understanding and enhancing analytical skills. In this article, let’s delve deeper into English Language Arts to understand its importance in international education!
1. What is English Language Arts?
Among the different “Englishes”, English Language Arts is defined by the U.S Common Core as the subject that “asks students to read stories and literature, as well as more complex texts that provide facts and background knowledge in areas such as science and social studies. Students will be challenged and asked questions that push them to refer back to what they’ve read. This stresses critical-thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills that are required for success in college, career, and life”.
English as a Second Language (ESL) programs tend to focus on basic language skills for non-native speakers, emphasizing vocabulary and grammar without delving deeply into academic content. In contrast, English Language Arts develops all language skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing, grammar, and pronunciation) in an engaging academic context. ELA also includes teaching academic terminology in fields like Math, Science, Culture, and Career orientation. Simply put, ELA is academic English for students, taught entirely in English, with the ultimate goal of deepening understanding and improving analysis in English.
2. The Importance of ELA in Modern Education
In Vietnam, while there are many education centers, the concept of ELA is still relatively new, even for parents with children in international education. Academic English proficiency is crucial not only for excelling in studies and confidently using English but also for preparing students for global opportunities, such as studying abroad.
In bilingual and international learning environments, ELA plays a critical role in building a solid language foundation. It not only supports students in understanding English but also helps them develop soft skills needed for international exams like the SAT, IELTS, or advanced academic programs.
ELA also serves as a stepping stone for students aiming to study abroad or earn scholarships, making it easier to access international academic programs and use English across various contexts, from academic to social settings.
In a rapidly evolving world, ELA helps students gain a deeper understanding of global, cultural, and social issues from multiple perspectives, essential in today’s multicultural and multilingual learning environments.
3. Benefits of Early ELA Education
Starting students early with English Language Arts offers numerous benefits:
English Language Arts cement a strong foundation for academic reading and writing: The ELA curriculum exposes students to complex reading materials like novels, literary works, poetry, and essays. Essentially, students learn how to write in English as native speakers do. Through standards like the 6+1 Writing Traits, students develop an appreciation for the diversity of language and improve their English through various text forms.
English Language Arts sharpens critical thinking:Critical thinking is crucial for processing and filtering information. By encouraging students to ask open-ended questions and engage in discussions, ELA helps students learn systematically, think comprehensively, and critically assess any information.
English Language Arts helps enhance performance in other subjects: ELA integrates language learning with other subjects, enabling students to analyze and evaluate topics across various fields. Mastering the four core skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing in ELA provides students with a strong foundation for success in other subjects.
English Language Arts prepares students for college abroad: At the university level, particularly in foreign institutions, students need a strong academic English proficiency. ELA equips students with the skills to write essays, deliver presentations, and conduct research—all essential for thriving in international academic settings.
English Language Arts is crucial for a professional life beyond school: English Language Arts emphasizes 21st-century skills: Communication, Collaboration, Creativity, and Critical Thinking. Through ELA, students gain important skills for a successful life and career in the globalized world.
At Everest Education (E2), our English Language Arts program bridges the gap between conversational English and advanced English literature. Instead of merely memorizing vocabulary and basic grammar, students learn literary analysis, research skills, and presentation techniques in an immersive English-speaking environment.
Students will practice writing academic essays, improve their presentation skills, and develop the ability to persuade an audience—essential skills for success in international environments. E2’s ELA levels range from beginner to advanced, tailored to students from Grade 1 to Grade 12, ensuring that each student receives instruction suited to their ability.
E2 applies modern, effective teaching methods, with curricula based on the U.S. Common Core standards, ensuring international-quality education. At E2, students access:
An academic English program that develops core reading and writing skills.
Interactive teaching methods that encourage independent, creative thinking.
A personalized learning path to support students in developing academic knowledge and language proficiency.
English Language Arts is not just a subject but a gateway to knowledge and global opportunities. By investing in ELA from an early age, parents are equipping their children with the necessary skills to succeed in the globalized world.
At E2, we are committed to providing a high-quality ELA program to help students confidently step into international environments. Don’t miss the chance to enroll your child in a well-rounded educational journey!
