M4: More on Cummins' Theory (CUP)

Cummins also explained a concept that he termed Common Underlying Proficiency (CUP). He believed that if learners had already learned a language, namely their native tongue, then they are readily equipped to learn a second. This previous knowledge serves to support their understanding of basic skills and concepts related to language and, thus, a second language should theoretically come easier to them, as would a third or even fourth come even easier as they progress. This common underlying proficiency gives every learner the ability to learn new languages.

The terms and concepts around BICS, CALP, and CUP are generally present on your certification exams, so you should be prepared to see them again. In practice, you will see these concepts at play every day, so you are advised to think about their relevance to your work in the classroom.