Acquiring Language

Acquiring a second language generally follows a predictable path, although exceptions and variation are frequent.

  • BICS (Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills): This is social language and language needed for everyday communication. It usually takes one to three years. It is surprising how quickly students learn conversational English.
  • CALP ( Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency): This is the language necessary to undertake academic tasks in the mainstream classroom. It may take five to seven years to develop academic English. Much depends upon the student’s academic level in his home language and/or the age the student immigrates.

Please, don’t confuse the ability to communicate

socially with the ability to succeed academically

at grade level.