Also known as Conversational or Social Language. Everyday, straightforward communication skills that are helped by contextual support. The language ability required for verbal face-to-face communication.  Bilingual Syntax Measure (BSM): assessment used measure a student’s language dominance. This oral assessment is generally administered at the tim [..]

The ability to read and write proficiently in two languages.

The ability to use any form of language appropriate to the demands of social situations. The components of communicative competence include linguistic knowledge, cultural knowledge, and interaction skills.

Also known as two-way or developmental, the goal of these bilingual programs is for students to develop language proficiency in two languages by receiving instruction in English and another language in a classroom that is usually comprised of half native English speakers and half native speakers of the other language.

English language learner. A national-origin-minority student who is limited-English-proficient. This term is often preferred over limited-English-proficient (LEP) as it highlights accomplishments rather than deficits. Massachusetts law defines an English learner as a student who cannot perform ordinary classwork in English.

A program of techniques, methodology and special curriculum designed to teach ELL students English language skills, which may include listening, speaking, reading, writing, study skills, content vocabulary, and cultural orientation. ESL instruction is usually in English with little use of native language.

An alternate term that is used to describe a limited English proficient (LEP) student, which focuses on the development of the English language, rather than viewing the native language as a deficit. Massachusetts law interchangeably uses the term English learner in place of ELL.  English Language Proficiency Benchmarks and Outcomes (ELPBO): A docum [..]

A student who was formerly an LEP student who has a level of English proficiency that approximates that of a native English speaking student.

Comprehension (Listening), Production (Speaking), Reading, and Writing.

The permission of a parent to enroll their child in an ELL program, or the refusal to allow their child to enroll in such a program, after the parent is provided effective notice of the educational options and the district's educational recommendation.