Definitions of English Language Proficiency

Definitions of English Language Proficiency

English only – native speakers who do not speak any other language

Language minority – primary home language not English

Limited English proficient or English language learner- level of English fluency in speaking, reading, writing, or understanding English likely to limit academic success in mainstream classroom

Fluent English proficient- language minority students able use English on level that allows them to function successfully in mainstream English classroom

Nationwide more than 460 languages and dialects are spoken in U.S. schools!