Definition: The abbreviation E.S.L. is commonly used as shorthand for the phrase "English as a Second Language." Students whose first language is something other than English are referred to as "English Language Learners" and are often designated as ESL in order to receive accommodations and support with their language acquisition goals.
Students in an ESL program benefit from scaffolding techniques that add appropriate instructional aid. ESL students are working to become fluent in oral, written, and spoken English.