Common Terms

Common terms:

ELL: English Language Learner. Students whose first language is a language other than English. May also be referred to as MLL (Multi-Lingual Learner) as many students are learning mulitple languages at the same time.

ESL: English as a Second Language. The program for ELLs.

ELD: English Literacy Development. The program for ELLs who have had significant gaps in their education.

L1: First Langauge. The student's first language, often the one spoken at home.

HMC: Halton Multicultural Council. A community-based agency that provides a variety of programs and services to newcomers.

YSW: Youth Settlement Worker. Works for the HMC and helps newcomer families transition to school, find housing/employment, and other helpful support services.