English as a Second Language

 

ESL "English as a Second Language"

ESL is used to indicate that English is not the first language that the individual has learned or uses as their first or native language. In fact for many language students English may be their third, fourth or fifth language. The term ESL is used to indicate that English is not the native language of the individual.

Many ESL teachers will refer to the individual's native language as "L1" and English as "L2" or the "target" language.

Individuals who are studying English as a second language can state "I am an ESL student" or "I am a student studying ESL" or use the full English words and state " I am studying English as a second language".

Individuals can clarify themselves by stating I am studying English as a foreign language, which for many means that you are studying English as an academic subject and do not plan to use English for actual communication. Individuals can also clarify themselves by stating that they are studying English Literature which is like the history of English Performance Art and do not plan to use English for actual communication.

ESL students usually study English Language listening, speaking, reading, writing, grammar and vocabulary to be able to actively produce English conversation and writing and passively comprehend verbal and written English. The ESL students usually study in an interactive learning environment where they are provided with instructional input and are expected to produce both learned and original English language communication.

ESL students in a direct "L2" target language native teacher instruction program using full interactive programs are in an ESL communicative learning methodology program.

ESL students can also study ESL English using grammar translation, rote drills, English cloze exercises, ESL Call programs, ESL flash cards, writing vocabulary lists, writing learning diaries, using listen and repeat cassettes, recording reading passages and other English language learning materials and methods.

English is an "Official Language" in many countries such as Canada, the USA, the UK, and Australia. English is used by many countries as a second official language and in many cases as an unofficial second language. English is used as the global language of instruction for many computer hardware and software companies. English is also used as a universal language for business.

ESL students are adding a very valuable skill that adds to their resume. For additional information go to English Conversation Skills. English Language Conversation Skills are important for ESL students to successfully converse with English native speakers or use English as the language of international business communication.

"ESL" is an acronym used to represent "English as a Second Language".

"EFL" is an acronym used to represent "English as a Foreign Language".

"ISL" is used by Spanish speakers to represent "Ingles como segunda lengua".

"ESOL" is an acronym used to represent "English Speaker of Other Languages".

"ELT" is an acronym used to represent "English Language Training".

ESL English Books and Education Links

Exploring Canada's Past

Canada's Digital Collections: Library and Archives Canada is the federal institution responsible for acquiring, preserving and keeping Canada's documentary heritage accessible. It combines the functions of the Public Archives of Canada (founded 1872, renamed National Archives of Canada 1987) and the National Library of Canada (founded 1953). Go to: http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/

The Canadian Encyclopedia

All things Canadian
The Historica-Dominion Institute is a national charitable organization that was launched in September 2009 through the amalgamation of two existing organizations: The Historica Foundation of Canada and The Dominion Institute. Link to the Canadian Encyclopedia

Internet bookstores

1. Woozles, Halifax bookstore suggested titles for children with reading problems, also has listings of Canadian picture books, and books specifically for infants, and preschoolers.
   http://www.woozles.com
2. Whodunit Canada, latest crime fiction, mystery thrillers and hardboiled detective stories, collectible books, as well as British and Canadian mystery titles.
   http://www.whodunitcanada.com
3. Hugh Anson-Cartwright: Fine Books, Maps, Prints, antiquarian books. lists of rare and antique books in Canadiana, Arctic, Literature, Canadian Art, Voyages and Travels.
   http://www.ansoncartwright.com/

Original post: ESL in Canada Directory