Glossary of terms used for teaching or learning of English as a second Language
EAL - English as an additional language: provision for children in English schools whose first language is not English is generally referred to as EAL. It is also used to describe these learners.
EMAG - Ethnic Minority Achievement Grant: this grant is a key source of additional funding available to schools and local authorities for the support of minority ethnic pupils.
ESOL - English for speakers of other languages: this term is used in the adult literacy sector, and within the Skills for Life adult basic skills strategy for provision for adults whose first language is not English, within an English-speaking region. This also includes 16-19 year-old learners in adult education.
EFL - English as a foreign language. EFL usually indicates the use of English in a non-English-speaking region. However, EFL is taught in many private colleges all over the UK and there is also some provision in adult education colleges as well. Many of the EFL courses offered follow a curriculum set by Cambridge University including First Certificate in English (FCE), Certificate in Advanced English (CAE), Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System). A high pass in IELTS is often a requirement for university entrance if the student has English as a second language.
ESL - English as a second language: this terms is mainly used in the USA instead of ESOL or EFL.
TEFL - Teaching English as a Foreign Language: this term is used for teaching or teacher training courses in English as a foreign language mainly for people who work abroad or in private language schools in the UK.
TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages: this term is used in the USA instead of TEFL.
CELTA - Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults is a widely recognised initial TEFL teaching qualification for people with little or no previous teaching experience.
DTE(E)LLS - Diploma in Teaching English (ESOL) in the Lifelong Learning Sector: DTE(E)LLS is a teacher training qualification with a specific focus on ESOL subject knowledge. It is the qualification required by teachers wishing to teach English to speakers of other languages in the lifelong learning sector in England.
