What is my "FIRST LANGUAGE"?

<p>HEY</p>

<p>Thanks for opening up this discussion.</p>

<p>So I am filling out an application and its asking me for my First Language. I was an ESL studying in Kindergarten, then I became a regular student halfway through Kindergarten. However, I'm more proficient in English even though I speak my other language with my family and anyone who can understand. I can read, for the most part, but have never been taught how to write. It can be seen, however, how weak I am in English with the B+ in Freshman English (everyone gets an A) and my terrible CR score on the PSATs.</p>

<p>What do I put as my first language, Arabic or English?</p>

<p>Arabic. You were born speaking Arabic, right? Then it’s Arabic.</p>

<p>Arabic</p>

<p>Well, no one was born speaking anything. But your first langauge is what you learned in your home before you started school. Arabic would be the answer for your description.</p>

<p>Which did you learn FIRST?
Arabic.
Will they test you on Arabic?
No.
Should you say Arabic?
Yes.</p>

<p>Yes, Arabic.</p>

<p>My father is ESL, he learned English in kindergarten and beyond, but he is not English as a first language.</p>

<p>English is your “first” language. I know lots of expat kids who were educated in English language int’l schools and are barely proficient in their birth tongue. You’re a good example; you’re in HS and can’t even write Arabic. If the schools wanted the language u speak at home, then that’s how they would have stated it. </p>

<p>But in your case, for your applications I wd chose Arabic, so the schools will cut u some slack for a middling English performance. </p>

<p>Thanks everyone!!!</p>