Key Characteristic 2: Leadership for Learning

STANDARD # 14

Curriculum and instruction are augmented by reliable information resources and materials that advance learning and support learners’ personal interests.

Elements

Professional staff members suggest and provide selected information resources and materials for learners that broaden and enrich the learning process and support learners’ personal interests. Information resources and materials are selected from credible sources and based on verifiable information.

Evidence

Evidence 1: MNTS syllabus (https://www.mntamilschool.org/mnts-syllabus-overview/) and its evolution into an intuitive courseware has been explained. Feedback forms and conferences are used to continuously enrich the syllabus and material. MNTS Syllabus is fully based on learning targets of ACTFL and CEFR national learning standards and adopts can-do statements by NCSSFL. A real world relatable scenarios are acquired/developed for each can-do statements, approximately 15 per language learning skills (like Interpretive Listening, Interpretive Reading, Inter-personal Listening/Speaking and Presentational Writing) and to each language proficiency levels (Novice Low, Mid, High, Intermediate Low, Mid, High and Advanced Low).

Interpretive Reading/Listening skills uses authentic texts which is how the language is used in the real world, MNTS Syllabus is using these authentic texts and keep improving them with limited vocabulary, focused subjects for the levels, adding pertinent vocabulary etc. The assessment methodology using IPA (Integrated Performance Assessment) templates which provide clear evidence of the attained skills by the students, which help us to continuously improve the content. Real world usage of the language as syllabus and assessment enables both teachers and students to understand the expectations and learning outcomes fairly easily as they are quickly relatable. Creative skills like Speaking and Writing, provide opportunity as part of the lesson plan to use the language based on their interests, liking and real world exposure, rather than following predefined text.

Evidence 2: MNTS Syllabus tab on the website (https://www.mntamilschool.org/) lists down various resources like 1. Books – Text & Homework, 2. Read Tamil Apps – Android & IOS, 3. Quizlet for Frequent words, 4. MNTS Tamil School Youtube, and 5. Education Apps etc.

Evidence 3: LMS Students Manual (https://www.mntamilschool.org/lms-students-manual/) & LMS Teachers Manual (https://www.mntamilschool.org/teachers-manual/) guides user on the robust learning management system which houses various resources which are intuitively aligned to the grades, various skill levels and learning needs/interest of the students. The manuals are the testament for how LMS has become an integral element of the school’s operation.

Evidence 4: Review the library section under Students handbook. The physical books are made available to the students from Mazhalai to Unit18 in the library. Strong process has been established in administering these books.