This document summarizes the key differences between English as a Second Language (ESL) and English as a Foreign Language (EFL). ESL refers to learning English in a primarily English-speaking country, where it is important for survival and daily life. ESL classes have mixed nationalities and no shared native language. EFL refers to learning English in one's home country, where English is not necessary for daily life. EFL classes have a shared native language and culture, and English is learned through a notion-based approach rather than a function-based one.

1. TEENA M S
EFL $ ESL

2. ESL- English as a Second
Language
 A second language is a language that is
not your native but you have learned it to
get by in your daily life.
 English as a Second Language (ESL)
classes takes place in an English-speaking
country, with students from all different
backgrounds
 ESL is where English is taught to students
in a country where English is the primary
language.
 Eg-a Chinese student is learning English in

3. ESL- contd….
 The typical vocabulary of a second-
language speaker will be about
household items, groceries, various
routine needs
 Most ESL students are immigrants or
native minorities
 The class is usually of mixed
nationalities, so students don’t share a
native language or a common culture.
 ESL classrooms share a target
language

4. EFL- English as a Foreign
Language
 A foreign language is a language you learn
because you are interested in it for
whatever reason.
 One may not use his foreign language in
his daily life
 The typical vocabulary of a foreign
language speaker will include amazingly
varied topics such as politics, philosophy,
science, literature - not necessarily useful
in real life
 An EFL classroom is in a country where

5. EFL cntd….
 Students share the same language and
culture.
 Homogeneos classroom
 The teacher may be the only native English
speaker they have exposure to.
 EFL classrooms share a native language
 Eg-a Chinese student learning English in
China would fall under this category.
 Students are usually more receptive to
learning reading and writing and less
concerned with speaking and listening

6. conclusion
ESL EFL
Full Form English as a Second Language English as a Foreign
Language
Definition Teaching English in multilingual
groups in a country where
English is the official or
dominant language
EFL is used in context
to teaching English in
monolingual groups in
their own country.
Importance If not survival, at least success Not important for
survival or success

7. Conclusion ctnd….
Approach Function based Notion based
Example Australia, a Chinese
person studying
English in London.
Classroom in
Columbia, Thailand
Hours An ESL leaner usually
requires more hours of
English instruction and
practice in comparison
to EFL learners
An EFL leaner usually
requires less hours of
English instruction and
practice