For pupils who are learning English as an additional language as well as learning through English, many aspects of their EAL development are different and more challenging than that faced by their English-speaking peers learning English as a National Curriculum subject. For instance, they will have to grapple with everyday vocabulary and pronunciation, something that their peers would have attained through experience at home and in school. Beyond that, there are the more demanding tasks of learning English grammar and social/academic rules of use which, if unassisted, can present formidable difficulties and can entail years of hit-and-miss efforts.
These students’ distinctive needs should not be forgotten when it comes to subject assessments. EAL learners may need additional support when preparing for exams, particularly with examination technique, style and vocabulary. Some pupils may be entitled to access arrangements, such as a dictionary or Extra-Time.