CALP vs BICS Research

CALP (Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency) and BICS (Basic Interpersonal Communicative Skills) are two ways to understand language development in learners. BICS refers to everyday, social language skills—like chatting with friends—that typically develop quickly, within months. CALP involves the more advanced academic language needed for school subjects—like reading textbooks or understanding instructions—which takes longer, often several years, to master. Recognizing this helps educators support students' language growth by providing appropriate strategies for both everyday communication and academic success.