Stages of Second Language Acquisition for ESL Students

    As ESL learners progress towards native-like proficiency in English, they move through a series of predictable stages. These stages are part of a continuum of language acquisition.

•  Stage 1: Using English for Survival Purposes

  • Students at Stage 1 are gradually becoming familiar with the sounds, rhythms, and patterns of English. They try to make sense out of messages, and demonstrate little comprehension of language. Students often respond non-verbally or with single words or short phrases, and their understanding depends on visual aids.

• Stage 2: Using English in Supported and Familiar Activities and Contexts

  • Students at Stage 2 listen with greater understanding and use everyday expressions independently. They demonstrate growing confidence and use personally relevant language appropriately.

•  Stage 3: Using English Independently in Most Contexts

  • Students at Stage 3 speak with less hesitation and demonstrate increasing understanding. They produce longer phrases and sentences, and participate more fully in activities related to academic content areas. Students are able to use newly acquired vocabulary to retell, describe, explain, and compare, read independently, and use writing for a variety of purposes.

• Stage 4: Using English With a Proficiency Approaching That of First-Language Speakers

  • Stage 4 is often the longest in the language-acquisition process as significant differences are usually seen between the abilities of students at the beginning of this stage and at the end. Students use a more extensive vocabulary with greater accuracy and correctness. Even though their proficiency in language specific to academic program areas is still developing, they are able to use reading and writing skills to explore concepts in greater depth.

     

    (Minisitry of Education, English as a Second Language and English Literacy Development, 2001)