ELL, ESL, LEP: What Do They All Mean?
ELL - English Language Learners - most current term used in the United States to describe students whose native language is not English, are at various stages of acquiring English, and require various levels of language support in order to become fully proficient in English.
ESL - English as a Second Language- this term was formerly used as a designation for ELL students, but now it refers to a program of instruction designed to support ELL students.
LEP - Limited English Proficiency - this term is used by the U.S. Department of Education for ELLs who have not yet demonstrated proficiency in English.
BICS - Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills - language skills needed to interact in social situations. For example, on the playground, when talking to a friend, or in the lunchroom.
CALP - Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency - academic language essential for students to succeed in school.
HLS - Home Language Survey- a form that every parent of the student must complete at the time of initial enrollment; federal requirement.
ESL - English as a Second Language- this term was formerly used as a designation for ELL students, but now it refers to a program of instruction designed to support ELL students.
LEP - Limited English Proficiency - this term is used by the U.S. Department of Education for ELLs who have not yet demonstrated proficiency in English.
BICS - Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills - language skills needed to interact in social situations. For example, on the playground, when talking to a friend, or in the lunchroom.
CALP - Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency - academic language essential for students to succeed in school.
HLS - Home Language Survey- a form that every parent of the student must complete at the time of initial enrollment; federal requirement.