If you’ve ever ventured into the world of English language teaching, you’ve probably felt like you’ve stepped into a secret society where everyone speaks in acronyms. TESOL, EAP, IELTS—what do they all mean? It’s like learning a new language just to understand the jargon! Fear not, fellow educators and learners, because this post will break down the mystery behind those letters and make sense of it all. Grab a cuppa, and let’s dive into the ultimate glossary of terms in English language teaching and assessment.
Teaching contexts and learner groups
EAL (English as an Additional Language)
For learners who speak another language at home and are acquiring English alongside their native tongue.
ELT (English Language Teaching)
A broad term encompassing all teaching methods and approaches for English learners.
EFL (English as a Foreign Language)
For students learning English in a country where it’s not the primary language.
ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)
Covers all courses aimed at non-native speakers, whether they’re in an English-speaking country or abroad.
ESL (English as a Second Language)
Focuses on teaching English to those living in English-speaking environments.
TEAL (Teaching English as an Additional Language)
Similar to ESL, but with an emphasis on embracing learners’ cultural and linguistic diversity.
TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
The umbrella term for teaching English, whether in an EFL or ESL context.
TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
Specifically teaching English in non-English-speaking countries.
Qualifications for English teachers
CELTA) Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
An intensive course for aspiring teachers, CELTA is a passport to teaching English anywhere in the world.
Cert IV in TESOL
A practical qualification for those starting their TESOL journey, combining theory with hands-on experience. It includes a requiredpractical teaching component to prepare learners for real classroom environments.
CTEYL (Certificate in Teaching English to Young Learners)
Specialised training for teachers passionate about working with children.
DELTA (Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
Aimed at experienced teachers, DELTA takes a deep dive into advanced teaching theories and practices.
Diploma in TESOL
An advanced qualification for those looking to specialise further or take on leadership roles in the field.
Trinity TESOL
Another prestigious certification, this course blends theory with practice to prepare teachers for the classroom.
TKT (Teaching Knowledge Test)
A Cambridge Assessment test for teachers focusing on core teaching knowledge, suitable for teachers at any experience level.
PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education)
A qualification for teaching in schools, often with options to specialise in EAL (English as an Additional Language).
MA TESOL (Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
An advanced degree for professionals seeking deeper theoretical and practical knowledge in TESOL.
*TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
Is not a single standardised qualification but rather an umbrella term that refers to both the profession of teaching and the various certifications available to teach English. The credibility of a TEFL qualification depends on the institution offering it.
English language proficiency tests
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
One of the most recognised tests worldwide, it’s essential for study, work, or migration in English-speaking countries. Pro tip: There’s an Academic and a General Training version, so choose wisely!
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
A favourite among students planning to study at universities in English-speaking countries. It focuses on academic English.
TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication)
Tailored for the workplace, TOEIC assesses how well you can handle English in professional settings. Think emails, meetings, and presentations.
PTE (Pearson Test of English)
A computer-based English language test that assesses academic English skills in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. It’s widely recognised for study and migration purposes, offering fast results.
Cambridge English Levels
The Cambridge English qualifications are aligned with the CEFR levels and include:
Pre A1 Starters (YLE Starters): Designed for young learners taking their first steps in English.
A1 Movers (YLE Movers): Aimed at young learners with basic communication skills.
A2 Flyers (YLE Flyers): The most advanced test for young learners, showcasing solid foundational English skills.
A2 Key for Schools (KET): An elementary-level qualification tailored for school-age learners.
B1 Preliminary for Schools (PET): A qualification for school-age learners at the intermediate level.
B2 First for Schools (FCE): For school-age intermediate learners ready for academic and professional use.
A2 Key (KET): An elementary-level qualification for everyday use.
B1 Preliminary (PET): A qualification for those with basic workplace and study English skills.
B2 First (FCE): For intermediate-level learners ready for academic and professional use.
C1 Advanced (CAE): For advanced learners proving academic or professional fluency.
C2 Proficiency (CPE): The highest-level Cambridge qualification, demonstrating mastery of the English language.
B1 Business Preliminary (BEC Preliminary): Focused on English for business purposes at a basic level.
B2 Business Vantage (BEC Vantage): Aimed at intermediate learners in a business context.
C1 Business Higher (BEC Higher): For advanced learners demonstrating proficiency in business English.
Linguaskill:
A flexible, online test that assesses English proficiency for academic, business, or general use.
Specialised English learning and teaching
CALL (Computer-Assisted Language Learning)
This is where tech meets teaching. From apps to virtual classrooms, CALL is a game-changer for modern language learners.
MALL (Mobile-Assisted Language Learning)
A subset of CALL that focuses on using mobile devices for learning. Perfect for language learners on the go.
VLE (Virtual Learning Environment)
Platforms like Moodle or Blackboard that facilitate online teaching and learning.
EAP (English for Academic Purposes)
Focused on helping students thrive in academic settings, EAP is all about mastering essays, lectures, and academic discussions.
ESP (English for Specific Purposes)
Whether it’s business, medicine, or law, ESP equips learners with the vocabulary and skills they need for their specific field.
ELF (English as a Lingua Franca)
Refers to using English as a common language among speakers with different native languages.
TEYL (Teaching English to Young Learners)
Teaching kids is an art. TEYL focuses on age-appropriate strategies to make English learning engaging and effective for little ones.
Added extra (or ‘ones I didn’t know where to put’)
ESL Pull-out
A model where learners are removed from their regular classes for separate English instruction.
ESL Push-in
A model where an ESL teacher supports English learners within their mainstream classroom.
WIDA (World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment)
A consortium providing English language development standards and assessments, widely used in North America.
IDP (International Development Program)
One of the three co-owners of the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), alongside British Council and Cambridge Assessment English.
What is the CEFR?
CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)
A globally recognised framework describing language proficiency levels:
A1 (Beginner): Can understand and use basic phrases and expressions.
A2 (Elementary): Can communicate in simple tasks and routine situations.
B1 (Intermediate): Can deal with most situations while travelling and produce simple texts.
B2 (Upper-Intermediate): Can interact with fluency on familiar topics and produce clear, detailed text.
C1 (Advanced): Can express ideas fluently and use language flexibly for professional or academic purposes.
C2 (Proficient): Can understand virtually everything and express themselves effortlessly.
If you’re still reeling from acronym overload, you’re not alone. But with this handy glossary, you’re now equipped to decode the alphabet soup of English language teaching and assessment. Whether you’re a teacher planning your next career move, a student navigating proficiency tests, or just someone curious about this fascinating field, these terms are your guide to understanding and succeeding in the world of ELT.
And remember, acronyms might be confusing, but they also reveal the richness and diversity of English language teaching. So, the next time someone drops a “TESOL” or “EAP” in conversation, you’ll know exactly what they’re talking about!
If you think I have missed one, please let me know.