English Intensive Program (EIP)

Why More English?

As a German-international school dedicated to preparing our students for the German International Abitur, we place special emphasis on equipping our students for both life and studies in German-speaking countries and an international life in English-speaking environments. English plays a central role in daily life in Abu Dhabi and in the school day at GISAD. The level of English proficiency among our German-international students is often higher than that of students in Germany.

The English Intensive Program (EIP)

Our EIP offers three specially designed courses tailored to the individual needs of our students from preschool through grades 1 to 4:

  1. EIP for Students with Limited English Proficiency and Newcomers This course is mandatory for all new students who come to GISAD with little or no English proficiency. The goal is to quickly bring the children’s language skills to a sufficient level to participate successfully in English lessons and all school activities (e.g., ordering lunch in English).
    • Duration: 3 lessons per week
    • Commitment: Mandatory participation for at least 1 school year
    • Goal: To quickly and interactively build the basics of the English language
  2. EIP for Advanced English Learners This course is designed for students who already have good English skills and wish to improve their conversational abilities. Additionally, this course prepares students for a Cambridge qualification, which is internationally recognized and can be facilitated by specially qualified teachers.
    • Duration: 3 lessons per week
    • Goal: To improve conversational English and prepare for the Cambridge qualification (English certificate according to language proficiency levels)
  3. EIP in Preschool This course is for all interested preschool children. Through speaking, singing, crafting, and playing activities, English is promoted in a playful and engaging way.
    • Duration: 2 lessons per week
    • Goal: Playful, intensive promotion of the English language

What EIP Offers

  • Small Groups & Experienced Teachers: All courses are taught by experienced English teachers in small groups, allowing for individual attention and targeted support for each child.
  • Immersive Learning and Holistic Progress: Various activities, explanations, and conversations are conducted entirely in level-appropriate English, enabling children to quickly and holistically improve their listening, speaking, and, depending on the grade level, reading and writing skills in English.
  • Individualized Support: The development of your child’s English proficiency is regularly monitored to ensure progress and optimal support.

Participation

The program is specifically aimed at all children from preschool to grade 4 who do not participate in DaF (German as a Foreign Language) classes, as the support program is primarily conducted parallel to German language support. Leaving the DaF class for EIP is not possible, as the development of German language skills takes precedence in line with school requirements.

Participation in the EIP for newcomers without English proficiency and without DaF is mandatory. All other courses are voluntary or attended upon the strong recommendation of the regular English teacher.

The placement of the child in the beginner or advanced course is determined by the respective English teacher.