English language learners (ELLs) are defined as which of the following?

• A. Students in the primary grades who have limited English proficiency and need specialized instruction.
• B. Students who are fluent in English and need no support.
• C. Students who learn only in home language and never in English.
• D. Students who do not study English at all.

Answer: (A)

The core idea is that English language learners are students who have limited English proficiency and need targeted instruction to build both language skills and academic understanding. In the early grades, this means providing language development support and instructional accommodations so they can access the curriculum while they become fluent. The other descriptions describe students who already speak English fluently and don’t need extra support, or who never study English at all, which don’t fit how ELLs are defined. So the correct choice emphasizes both limited English proficiency and the need for specialized instruction in the primary grades.