What is Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP)?

Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP) refers to the language proficiency necessary to understand and express complex ideas in academic contexts, particularly in formal educational environments. This type of language involves more than just basic conversational vocabulary; it includes the use of specialized terminology and grammatical structures that are common in academic settings. CALP is essential for tasks such as writing essays, engaging in critical thinking, and participating in classroom discussions, where the language is often decontextualized and abstract.

The other options pertain to different aspects of language use. Casual conversational skills, for example, are related to informal interactions that do not require the same level of complexity or understanding as academic language. Therefore, while all forms of language are important, CALP specifically deals with the academic demands placed on students which require a more sophisticated command of language.