Annual Report 2005-06 | Page 8

students grammar, pronunciation, reading comprehension and composition skills, along with idiomatic expressions, current events and a variety of field trips and activities that enhance the students’ understanding and vision of their local and global environment. All English language instruction is closely integrated with life skills instruction to provide students with the skills needed to gain employment, advocate for personal and family needs and become active members of society. General Education Development (GED) Test Preparation classes: These classes are offered in Spanish and English to prepare students to successfully pass the GED. The course teaches the academic skills and knowledge developed in a four-year program of high school education. The academic content areas taught are language arts (writing/reading), social studies, science, and mathematics. In today’s workforce, a high school diploma remains the primary ticket to many entry-level jobs and the prerequisite for advancement in employment, occupational training, and postsecondary education. Citizenship preparation class: This class ensures that students eligible to become naturalized United States citizens will be able to pass the naturalization interview test with confidence. The class instructs students in US history, government, the United States Constitution, the democratic process, and their rights and responsibilities as citizens. According to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) established by Congress, students eligible to become US citizens must have at least five years of continuous residence in the United States as a permanent resident; ability to read, write, and speak basic English; good moral A new citizen and his teacher celebrate the student’s accomplishment. Character; attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution and favorable disposition toward the United States. The USCIS interview exam will be redesigned in 2007. The test redesign committee has invited the school’s Assistant Director, Jay Castaño, to serve on the committee and the school will receive the most current information on upcoming changes. Computer Literacy class: This course is designed to help students develop skills in touch keyboarding and introductory basic computer concepts useful for personal use. It meets the needs of the average student or home user. Students will learn to use Windows 2003 and Microsoft Office applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, as well as internet use with Internet Explorer. This course is designed for both non-native and native English speakers of English. An advanced beginner proficiency of English as Second Language, (ESL Level Two) is the required minimum proficiency for this course. Workplace Computers class: This course introduces students to the more advanced skills needed for the workplace. Students will learn to use Windows 95, Microsoft Office, and build strong keyboarding and formatting skills to improve their employability. It equips students to perform well in administrative entry-level office positions, and to complement their performance in any other areas. This course is designed for both non-native and native English speakers of English. A high intermediate proficiency of English as Second Language, (ESL Level Four) is Carlos Rosario International Public Charter School, Annual Report SY 2005-2006 -7-