I guess the dictionary definition of language arts would be "The study of language, with a particular focus on essay writing and debate." while EFL is "teaching English to non-native speakers in a country where English is not the official language."
Some of the differences I can think of would be:
- L.A. assumes that the students are native speakers of English and may not speak any other language.
- The focus of L.A. would probably be less on spoken language and more on technical writing for specific purposes
- L.A. would look at literature for the sake of exposing students to specific authors, writing styles, prose, techniques, etc
-L.A. would examine literature for cultural contexts and historical relevancy.
- EFL is generally taught in non English speaking countries.
- EFL would teach English to students who may have very low exposure to the English language outside of class.
- EFL would be focused more on vocabulary, grammar, and communicative methods.
- Doesn't necessarily assume existing knowledge of English prior to taking EFL classes.
- The teachers are grievously underpaid.
