Students beginning the process of learning English as a second language start by learning how to use English for informational purposes in everyday life. At this level, for example, an ESL student might learn how to exchange pleasantries and have a basic conversation. Students at this stage will have a limited vocabulary, use basic syntax and make numerous errors.
As students progress, they will learn to apply their knowledge to an academic setting so that they can get the most out of their studies in the Anglophone classroom. In this sense, they will work with basic texts, applying the English skills that they have learned to understanding such concepts as theme. They may also begin producing short texts of their own.
At an advanced level, ESL students have progressed enough that they have mastered at a proficient level the four basic skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking. Therefore, they will be able to use these skills to work with more complex texts and understand complex lectures on a variety of subjects. They also should have a good understanding of social customs and behaviors in the classroom and beyond.
After ESL students have mastered the basics of the language, the last step is to integrate fully into the Anglophone culture. This will involve studying the history and customs of the United States, as well as working to understand and use more complex idioms and expressions.