What is the term for the practice of placing an English language learner in a mainstream classroom without teacher support?

The term for placing an English language learner in a mainstream classroom without teacher support is known as submersion. This practice often leads to students struggling academically and socially, as they may not fully comprehend the language of instruction or receive the necessary assistance to succeed. Submersion does not provide the appropriate linguistic or educational support, which is critical for English language learners to thrive in a new language environment.

In contrast, inclusion typically refers to blending students with diverse needs into general education classrooms with adequate support systems in place. Integration may involve bringing students into mainstream classrooms while still offering additional support, allowing for a smoother transition. Segregation implies separating students based on language proficiency, which is not the same as submersion. Submersion can be detrimental to student success, as it overlooks the importance of tailored instructional strategies that cater to the needs of English language learners.