Which term describes language-related disadvantage for minority ethnic groups?

• A. Bilingual
• B. EAL
• C. Dialect
• D. Pidgin

Answer: (B)

The item tests understanding of terminology used to describe language-related disadvantages that some minority ethnic learners may face in education. The best term is English as an Additional Language. This label specifically refers to pupils whose home language isn’t English and who may need extra support to access the curriculum in an English-speaking school system. It acknowledges that language barriers can influence learning experiences and outcomes, and it signals the kind of targeted support students might receive to develop their English proficiency.

Being bilingual is simply having two languages and isn’t inherently about disadvantage; many bilingual students thrive and use their language skills as an asset. A dialect is a regional or social variety of a language that can be stigmatized, but the term itself doesn’t denote a school-based disadvantage category. Pidgin describes a simplified language that develops for contact between groups and isn’t a label for educational disadvantage.