Question:
Can anyone help me to understand the conventional applications of ESL
(English as a Second Language) and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other
Languages)? In my locality, I think ESL often refers to college programs and
ESOL often is used for elementary and high school programs. I have seen Adult
Education English programs referred to as both ESOL and ESL.
Any clarification of these terms' usages would be appreciated! How
would one explain these terms accurately to a non-native speaker of English?
It would also be interesting to see if they are used differently in different
areas of the country.
Answer:
I would be interested to know, myself, whether there is any difference
that matters. I have been drafted by the local schools to act as an
"ESL Aide", and some of the material they've given me refers to
"TESOL" -- Teacher (or Teaching) of English for Speakers of Other
Languages.
I suspect hyper-correction is at work. If I teach English to a
Guatemalan whose native language is Mam (one of several "dialects"
spoken in Guatemala), and whose second language is Spanish, can I
truly be said to be teaching English as a _second_ language?
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