The amount of explanation required for the following sample activities, and the writing required from the students for each form will vary according to their level of English proficiency. The activities may need to be explained in more detail for beginning level learners. Also at the beginning level, the teacher might need to simplify the language in the forms or translate them and explain them in the learners' native language.

These forms are designed to provide examples of learning activities with English language learners. Practitioners are asked to include the reference at the bottom of the forms if they are duplicated.

Needs assessment may take many forms and may be carried out at different times during the instructional process. Whatever the focus and format, the basic purpose is to determine what learners want and need to learn. When learners know that educators understand and want to address their needs and interests, they are motivated to continue in a program and to learn.

References

Arlington Education and Employment Program. (1994). The REEP curriculum (3rd ed.). Retrieved June 26, 2004, from http://www.arlington.k12.va.us/instruct/ctae/adult_ed/REEP/reepcurriculum/

Holt, D., & Van Duzer, C. (2000). Assessing success in family literacy and adult ESL. Retrieved June 26, 2004, from http://calstore.cal.org/store/

Marshall, B. (2002). Preparing for success: A guide for teaching adult ESL learners. Retrieved June 26, 2004, from http://calstore.cal.org/store/

National Center for Family Literacy. (2004a). Toyota family literacy program initial family background interview. Louisville, KY: Author.

National Center for Family Literacy. (2004b). Toyota family literacy program post-parent survey interview. Louisville, KY: Author.

National Center for Family Literacy. (2004c). Toyota family literacy program pre-parent survey interview. Louisville, KY: Author.

Shank, C., & Terrill, L. (1997). Multilevel literacy planning and practice. Focus on Basics 1(c), 18-22. Retrieved June 26, 2004, from http://gseweb.harvard.edu/~ncsall/fob/1997/shank.htm

Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages, Inc. (2003). Standards for adult education ESL programs. Retrieved April 1, 2004, from http://www.tesol.org/s_tesol/index.asp

Terrill, L. (2004). [Classroom assignment]. Unpublished raw data.

Weddel, K. S., & Van Duzer, C. (1997). Needs assessment for adult ESL learners. Retrieved June 28, 2004, from http://cal-org.wdi.net/caela/digests/Needas.htm