Are you a non-native English speaker? Want to learn English? Then you should know what is ESL. English is widely spoken in business and communication worldwide, with 1.46 billion people. Learning English can open opportunities for you both locally and internationally. Most professional dealings in the world, among different countries, are communicated in English.
But how you can learn it? If you are also belonging to a language background other than English, then ESL (English as a Second Language) class should be your priority.
What is ESL?
English as a second language is shortly referred to as ESL. A process of teaching and learning English by non-native speakers is called ESL. Usually, different language skills like speaking, writing, listening, and reading are involved in ESL learning courses. It is focused on bringing more conversational and job-related chatty skills.
There is no limitation for ESL. Individuals with diverse backgrounds, age groups, and academic levels – from beginner to advanced levels can join ESL classes. Learners can start from any English level as per their abilities and learning potential. Generally, it is focused on developing practical communication skills in the learners.
Benefits of ESL for Learners:
ESL studies are not without benefits –there are multiple hidden and prominent advantages to boosting the potential of an individual globally. I have listed some of the main benefits in the below section.
- Enhanced Communication Skills: ESL enhances the ability to speak, read, write, and understand English. So, individuals can communicate in various settings.
- Better Employment Opportunities: English is the most spoken language in the world. So if you have passed ESL tests, you will be fluent and proficient in English. It will open up more job opportunities in a way to advance your career.
- Access to Education: Most of the graduate studies are conducted in English globally. ESL will allow you to access multiple educational institutions and resources. It will be beneficial in broadening your academic horizons.
- Cultural Awareness: A culture is related to language to some extent. ESL classes are also helping to understand the English culture while appreciating the other cultures.
- Social Integration: When you can speak English fluently, it increases your interaction in the local communities. You can easily communicate with them in a way to build a strong social connection.
- Digital Literacy: Many online platforms and technologies are in English. Therefore, it is obvious that learning English can improve your ability to explore the digital world.
Different Types of ESL:
ESL classes have different programs to meet different requirements and needs of non-native speakers. They can choose any of the main four types for their purposes.
CEFR Levels:
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages or CEFR is another widely used international structure. To organize the description of its learning-teaching process, it divides six proficiency levels from A1, which refers to beginners, to C2, which denotes the level of individuals who can deal with highly complex tasks. Some of these frameworks also have endeavored to incorporate a pre–beginner level as well.
CEFR ESL evaluates some important procedures, which involve reading, writing, speaking, and listening, and gives a total on English language competency.
TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
TEFL certification is required when one plans to teach English in a country where the language is not spoken. It makes educators ready to teach English to students who are non-English speaking. A TEFL instructor insists on the mastery of the language, particularly in comprehension and particularly, in speaking skills.
TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language)
TESL certification prepares teachers to develop the students’ fundamental skills in understanding the English language. All in all, TESL instructors teach individuals who are already in an English-speaking environment, for example, immigrants or international students.
TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
TESOL is broader than TEFL and TESL as is illustrated above. It readies professionals to teach the English language to children and adults everywhere, whether in English as a first language or as a second language. The teachers teach about learners’ diverse backgrounds and ways of meeting their learning needs while focusing on language and cultural development.
Tips for Choosing the Right ESL Class:
Selecting the best ESL class makes a lot of difference in the learning process for an individual. Here are some tips to help you find the best fit:
- It is also important to establish the reason why there is a need to learn English with some of the reasons being as follows. Do you need extra relearning to prepare for a test, to advance or secure a job, or to enhance one’s interpersonal relations?
- You should take a placement test to know the level at which you are placed. This will assist you to get the right class to join and offer good competition for your ability.
- This has the effect of putting people off because different teachers employ different methods. Some may target grammar and writing while others target speaking and listing more so the two concepts are significant. Select a class that favors your learning modality.
- Make sure that the class schedule is convenient to your timetable. Some of them can be pursued part-time, are online, or are condensed courses to suit everyone’s schedule.
- There should be reviews or recommendations of the previous students who undertook the same classes.
- If possible, one should be able to take a trial class so that they can get to see the way the teacher teaches and the atmosphere in the class before enrolling for ESL.
Final Verdict:
I hope that by this time you will be aware of what is ESL. I have provided a detailed overview of ESL considerations, tips, and types. If you are also willing to get involved in learning English, then going through this note will be beneficial for you to choose the right path. You can open new opportunities in your life by learning English. Most importantly, choosing the ESL course and institute is a wise decision. Therefore, as per your requirements look for the best.
