ESL vs. ELL: What You Need To Know

English language education has become a crucial aspect of the learning experience for millions of students. Two key terms often emerge in English-language instruction discussions: ESL (English as a Second Language) and ELL (English Language Learner). 

While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they refer to distinct concepts essential to understanding how non-native speakers learn and achieve proficiency in English. This blog post will explore the differences between ESL and ELL and why educators and learners must understand these distinctions.

ESL and ELL Explained

ESL stands for English as a Second Language. Many also call it the educational process and methodology undertaken to teach the English language to non-native speakers. These academic programs aim to make native speakers of other languages proficient in English, too.

ESL might be taught in schools, language institutes, community centers, or any other place where such teaching occurs. ESL develops students’ listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in this language and teaches them new and crucial knowledge bases.

ELL stands for English Language Learner, which refers to students learning English in addition to their native language. ELLs attend schools with ESL programs or other academic settings where teaching is in English. The term emphasizes the learner’s perspective, looking at the individual undertaking this process of acquiring proficiency in English.

Critical Differences Between ESL and ELL

Focus and Scope

ESL refers to instructional approaches and curricula used in teaching English. Programs consisting of various teaching strategies, materials, and assessments help learners achieve proficiency in the English language. ESL may be viewed as the framework or methodology for teaching English.

ELL refers to learners who need further input to develop their English language skills. It encapsulates students of different linguistic backgrounds and places learners at various stages of language acquisition.

Terminology Use

ESL is commonly used in schools and school districts to refer to the programs, classes, and instructional materials used to teach English. It will probably be the terminology educators, program administrators, and policy-makers use when speaking about how, what, and where the English language will be taught.

ELL is a more student-centered expression. Many teachers, school counselors, and educational researchers prefer to use this term to refer to these learners’ demographics, needs, and progress.

Educational Settings

ESL programs exist in elementary, middle, and high school, adult education centers, trade schools, and higher education institutions. They are organized at all levels of education because they need to satisfy the unique needs of each stage of schooling through appropriate instruction that enables students to become successful academically and socially.

Any school setting containing non-native speakers of English will have ELL students. This includes public and private schools, community colleges, universities, and vocational training programs. ELL represents a wide range of learners, from children to the oldest adults, seeking help with their English language development.

Conclusion

Knowing the differences between ESL and ELL is essential for language instruction and learning. ESL refers to methods and programs focused on teaching English, whereas ELL refers to learners learning the language. 
By identifying the particular needs of ELLs in ESL programs, teachers can create a supportive learning environment. Are you interested in pursuing an ESL Training Program? Enroll at Northwest Career College and embark on your journey to English language proficiency!