English Language Learners Key Terms

English Language Learner (ELL)

An English Language Learner (ELL) is a student whose level of proficiency in English is insufficient to allow them to master an English-only curriculum.

Bilingualism

Bilingualism is the ability to use two languages, either through acquisition of two languages in childhood or through learning a second language after acquiring the first language.

Multilingualism

Multilingualism is the ability to use more than two languages.

Biliteracy

Biliteracy is the ability to read and write in two languages.  Note that bilingualism is sometimes included in this term.

English as a Foreign Language (EFL)

English as a Foreign Language (EFL) indicates non-native-English speaking students who are learning English in a country where English is not the primary language.

English as a Second Language (ESL)

English as a Second Language (ESL) describes programs in English-speaking countries where students learn English as a second language.

Language majority speaker

A language majority speaker is a person who speaks the primary language of the country in which she/he resides.

Language minority speaker

A language minority speaker is a person whose native language is not the primary language of the country in which she/he resides.

Linguistically Isolated Household

A linguistically isolated household is one in which no one over the age of 14 speaks English at least “very well.” 

Codeswitching

Codeswitching entails alternating between two languages or linguistic codes within a single sentence, conversation, or other discursive event.  Codeswitching is common practice of ELLs.  It is generally grammatical, and can be used by teachers to increase students’ awareness of their linguistic practices.

First Language

A student’s first language is the one a child learns as his or her native language or mother tongue.  First language is often abbreviated L1.

Second Language

A second language is one that a person learns in addition to his or her first language.  Second language is often abbreviated L2