Language Policy
Sandtown Middle School is a Candidate School* for the MYP. This school is pursuing authorization as an IB World School. These are schools that share a common philosophy—a commitment to high quality, challenging, international education that Sandtown Middle School believes is important for our students.
*Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its four academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme, or the Career-related Programme (CP). Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted. For further information about the IB and its programmes, visit www.ibo.org
Sandtown Middle School acknowledges that language proficiency is crucial for building effective relationships in today's global society. Through comprehensive practice in receptive and productive skills, students learn to understand and communicate effectively in both spoken and written forms.
The curriculum includes the study of literature, social discourse, exposition, persuasive writing, and the dissemination of data and information literacy. These elements empower students to appreciate their world and express their thoughts confidently.
Additionally, the ability to present ideas through written, visual, and digital compositions equips students to navigate and succeed in an ever-changing world.
At Sandtown Middle School, language learning environments address the home language of the school (Language A), world languages (Language B), and mother tongues (Language A). All teachers recognize their role as language teachers, supporting the development of effective communication skills across the curriculum.
Instruction and content delivery primarily occur in the school's home language (Language A), with additional support provided to English Language Learners (ELL) to aid in language acquisition. Teachers utilize language as a medium of instruction, an instrument of assessment, a means of all levels of conversation, and a tool for reflection. This comprehensive approach ensures that students develop strong linguistic skills essential for their academic and personal growth.
Sandtown Middle School has systemized its instruction in English and literature, as well as in two world languages. Language classes are tailored to meet the diverse needs of learners, with teachers differentiating classroom practices and assessments to accommodate all students.
To support this, students have access to bilingual media materials available in the media center and through online platforms. This comprehensive approach ensures that all students receive the language support they need to succeed academically and develop strong communication skills.
Language A instruction at Sandtown Middle School is rigorous, meaningful, and sequential at all levels. Teachers focus on helping students develop skills in speaking, listening, reading, writing, and presenting information and ideas. Emphasis is placed on writing skills as essential components of communication and reflection.
Students engage with literature at increasing levels of complexity, and their understanding is demonstrated through essays, journals, reflection activities, media projects, and presentations, all of which highlight key language skills. In the Middle Years Programme (MYP), students produce written and spoken work and presentations in English or a world language. Vertical planning ensures a seamless learning continuum, fostering the progressive development of language proficiency.
Language Acquisition classes are a cornerstone of Sandtown Middle School's educational vision. Most students study two languages—English and either French or Spanish—to enhance their understanding of their own culture and those of others. Communicating in more than one language allows students to gain insights into the characteristics, processes, and craftsmanship of different languages, fostering intercultural understanding and respect. This multilingual approach not only broadens students' linguistic abilities but also enriches their global perspective and cultural empathy.
Sandtown Middle School offers a language learning progression for students within the Sandtown cluster, building on their experiences from Primary Years Programme (PYP) feeder schools. Recognizing that some students new to the Sandtown cluster or school district may lack prior knowledge of the language to be studied in the MYP, Language B teachers are equipped to deliver a comprehensive French and Spanish program. This program includes differentiation to address varying language proficiencies, adhering to the Language Acquisition objectives for emergent, capable, and proficient levels.
Students who are on grade level in English (Language A) take sequential classes in French or Spanish (Language B). Those below grade level in English participate in intensive skills classes in Language A and proceed to Language B once they catch up to grade level. Upon authorization, all other students begin Language B instruction in Year 1 (grade six) with either French or Spanish and continue with the same language throughout Years 2 and 3 (grades seven and eight). This structured approach ensures a consistent and progressive language learning experience for all students.
Sandtown Middle School takes pride in its strong history and clear emphasis on language acquisition, offering instruction in Spanish and French as part of the Middle Years Programme (MYP). The school features signage in the languages taught, creating an immersive language learning environment. Language Acquisition teachers are highly qualified and experienced in teaching world languages, ensuring that the instruction is both authentic and enriching. This depth in world language instruction enhances the overall teaching and learning experience, promoting a greater understanding of diverse cultures and languages among students.
English Language Learners (ELL)
Upon enrollment at Sandtown Middle School, students designated as English Language Learners (ELL) are assessed to determine their language proficiency. Based on the assessment results, students and their families are offered two options:
1. Transfer Option: Families may choose to transfer their child to a neighboring Fulton County middle school that offers a comprehensive suite of ELL services.
2. Waiver Option: Families may waive their right to transfer and choose to keep their child at Sandtown Middle School.
For students who remain at Sandtown, content-specific accommodations are provided to support their language development. These accommodations include, but are not limited to:
· Clearly stated and written content and language objectives, standards, and essential questions
· Utilization of supplementary materials
· Adaptation of texts, assignments, and assessments to suit all levels of student proficiency
· Preferential seating
· Modeling of activities
· Incorporation of hands-on activities in instruction
· Use of visuals, props, gestures, and technology
· Cooperative grouping
· Lesson pacing appropriate for the student's proficiency level
· Provision of extended time on assessments, tests, and exams
These accommodations are outlined in the Middle School English Learner Strategy and Accommodation Plan. This plan must be signed and dated by the teacher of content instruction and provided on an ongoing basis to ensure consistent support for ELL students.
References
International Baccalaureate Organization. MYP: From Principles into Practice. Cardiff: International Baccalaureate Organization
International Baccalaureate Organization. Programme Standards and Practices. Cardiff: International Baccalaureate Organization, January 2014.
North Atlanta High School. Language Policy. 2022.
Sutton Middle School. Language Policy. 2022.
Westlake High School. Language Policy. 2024