Domains of Language Acquisition

From TESOL Pre-K–12 English Language Proficiency Standards Framework

Each of the five language proficiency standards is divided into the language domains of
listening, speaking, reading, and writing. While interaction naturally occurs between and among
language domains, in this document, they are maintained as separate constructs as one way of
thinking about curriculum, instruction, and assessment.

Listening
Listening is an active skill. By highlighting an assortment of listening tasks across
standards, the need to involve students in active listening and purposeful listening skills
development becomes clear.
Speaking
English language learners engage in oral communication in a variety of situations for a
variety of purposes and in a wide spectrum of settings. As part of oral communication,
students are constantly using language in meaningful interaction with others.
Reading
English language learners process, interpret, and evaluate written language, symbols, and
text with understanding and fluency. Learning to read in a second language may be
enhanced or hindered by students’ level of literacy in their native language. Students who
have a strong foundation in reading in their first language bring with them skills that can
be readily transferred in the process of learning to read in English.
Writing
English language learners use written communication for a variety of purposes and
audiences. Writing can be used to express meaning through drawing, symbols, or text.
Source