Which description accurately characterizes Structured English Immersion as described in the material?

• A. A bilingual program with heavy native language use
• B. A 1980s subtractive program where instruction is English-only in a self-contained ESL classroom
• C. A reading comprehension strategy
• D. A method of language assessment

Answer: (B)

Structured English Immersion is an English-only instructional approach that shelters language learning by using carefully structured, simplified English with supportive visuals and modeling so English learners can access content while they acquire the language. The best description is an English-only program, often described as subtractive, from the 1980s, where instruction happens in a self-contained ESL classroom and native-language use is minimized to prioritize English acquisition. This aligns with SEI’s focus on English-only instruction in a dedicated setting, rather than integrating heavy native-language use or treating language work as a separate strategy or assessment. The other options describe bilingual emphasis, a standalone reading strategy, or a language assessment, none of which capture the English-only, sheltered classroom nature of Structured English Immersion.