ESL Literacy Curriculum Framework

Welcome to the ESL Literacy Curriculum Framework, a resource designed to guide adult ESL literacy practitioners through a process of curriculum development.

This in-depth introduction to the ESL Literacy Curriculum Framework will provide answers to some of the questions you may have as you begin to explore this resource.

An effective curriculum is responsive to learner needs and reflects the context in which it operates.  Adult ESL literacy programs in Alberta are diverse, serving different learner populations in both urban and rural contexts, in part-time and full-time settings. The ESL Literacy Curriculum Framework addresses this diversity by providing a general process for curriculum development, as well as information for specific program contexts. 

How is the framework organized?

This framework outlines a process of curriculum development in five stages. The stages are:

• Stage 1: Understand Needs

• Stage 2: Determine Focus

• Stage 3: Set Learning Outcomes

• Stage 4: Integrate Assessment

• Stage 5: Demonstrate Accountability

Throughout the stages, you will find key considerations in the curriculum development process.  In each stage, you will find information and resources for program providers in the Program Principles.  Information for instructors is provided in the Classroom Concept for each stage.

The framework also provides additional resources that provide more in-depth information in specific areas of ESL literacy.

• Recommendations for Integrating Numeracy

• Recommendations for Integrating Technology

Who is the framework for?

The ESL Literacy Curriculum Framework has been developed for practitioners in adult ESL literacy programs in Alberta. This resource can be used by ESL literacy curriculum developers, instructors and program providers.

What does this framework provide?

The ESL Literacy Curriculum Framework provides information, guidance and structure that will help you to develop a curriculum that is responsive to the needs of the learners in your particular adult ESL literacy context. It addresses curriculum development from both programming and instructional perspectives.

How can I use the framework?

You can use the framework to help you develop an adult ESL literacy curriculum in a variety of situations:

• Developing a new curriculum or program
• Evaluating or revising an existing curriculum
• Improving the way you plan for instruction
• Improving the kind of instruction you provide

Curriculum development is an organic, non-linear process.  As you use this framework, begin with what is manageable in your context and build from there. Move back and forth between the stages as necessary for your curriculum development process.

Explore this website and find information on the five stages, online learning experiences, and related Toolbox items. Return to the site to refresh your memory or to learn something new.

The ESL Literacy Curriculum Framework is meant to be used in conjunction with other resources such as, Essentials for LIFE, the Canadian Language Benchmark documents and Best Practice Guidelines for Adult ESL/LINC Programming and Instruction in Alberta.

How does this framework relate to the Canadian Language Benchmarks?

This framework aligns with the Phases of literacy development outlined in the Canadian Language Benchmarks 2000: ESL for Literacy Learners (Centre for Canadian Language Benchmarks, 2000).  The ESL Literacy Curriculum Framework does not replace these benchmarks, but frames them in the context of curriculum development and ESL literacy needs in Alberta.