Practitioner Toolkit: Working with Adult English Language Learners

Conclusion

Ideally, students with special needs would be served in classes of approximately ten students, in a quiet and pleasant environment. Bilingual assistance and on-site childcare would be provided, and classes would be conducted on weekends or at times that suit the participants. These classes would integrate community, work, and health information with language and literacy skill development. Students' needs would be assessed regularly, and there would be adequate time for students to learn the language and skills they need to be successful in the United States. While striving for these ideal situations, teachers of all English language learners—whether they have special needs or not—can better meet students' needs by following the suggestions outlined in this paper.

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