The guide is intended to aid Manitoba's high school administrators and curriculum developers in adapting and classifying standard courses specifically for students of English as a Second Language (ESL). It begins with a description of the ESL course designation and a brief discussion of characteristics of the ESL learner. The distinction between the ESL and "modified" designation, for students with cognitive disabilities, is also made. Issues in identification of ESL students, deciding whether to adapt a course for ESL students, and implementing ESL courses are considered. Policy concerning the role of these courses in meeting graduation requirements, reporting ESL-designated courses, and support for change at the district level is discussed briefly. (Contains 21 references.) (MSE)