ESL Q & A
1. What are the endorsement requirements for ESL?
Completion of 18 semester hours of course work to include the following:
Knowledge of pedagogy to include the following:Methods and curriculum to include the following:Knowledge of cultural and linguistic diversity to include the following:Bilingual and ESL methods Literacy in native and second languageAssessment to include language proficiency and academic content
Methods for subject matter content
Adaptation and modification of curriculumKnowledge of linguistics to include the following:
Language acquisition and proficiency to include the following:Knowledge of first and second language proficiencyLanguage to include structure and grammar of English
Knowledge of first and second language acquisitionHistory
Theory, models, and research
Policy and legislation
Current issues with transient populations
2. How do I get the ESL endorsement on my teaching license?
Once you have completed the program, the college will fill out an application recommending you for the endorsement.
3. How many hours must I complete for a conditional license?
You must complete 9 semester hours in ESL in order to obtain the twoyear conditional license. Send in the application for conditional licensure, your official transcripts and fee. You may obtain the conditional application by calling (515) 281 3611 or downloading it from the web at www.boee.iowa.gov
4. Who is authorized to teach ESL without the specific endorsement?
If a person held an Iowa teaching license prior to October 1, 1988, that person is authorized to teach ESL on the level where that person is currently licensed. Thus if a person held the general elementary endorsement prior to 1988, that person can teach elementary ESL.
5. May a teacher teach in a bilingual classroom without the ESL endorsement?
Yes, the teacher must hold the proper content area and grade level endorsement, because Iowa does not have a bilingual education endorsement.