Main Acronyms in English Learning

Key Language Learning Terms:

• SLA- Second Language Acquisition
• L1- Native Language
• L2- Second Language
• EAP- English for Academic language Purposes

• ESL- English as a Second Language
• ESOL-English for Speakers of Other Languages
• EFL- English as a Foreign Language
• ELL- English Language Learner

BICS & CALP in English Learning:

These terms address the average time ESL students take learning conversational and academic skills in the English language. BICs stands for Basic Interpersonal Communicative Skills, whereas CALP refers to the Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency.

The correct understanding of these acronyms is beneficial for students and instructors to obtain a successful second language teaching & learning experience. It brings an appropriate delivery and interaction in the second language acquisition process!

Why is It Important to Understand Principles of Second Language Acquisition?

Learning a second language is not only adding another set of linguistic codes to communicate in this world, but also boosting any individual’s brain’s highest potential. Learning English or another language presents acquiring new linguistics skills. Language learners must remember new grammar and vocabulary; training the memory to make connections and make sense of contextual settings. It is also true BICS & CALP present a language learning time of specific language skills, but everyone has his/her own rhythm of second language acquisition!