Understanding the Reading Needs of English Language Learners

English language learners in the United States are expected to read "at grade level" in all their courses after just a single year of ESL classes, despite the fact that many enter the U.S. school system without adequate preparation.

Because these students must read well in all subject areas, all teachers—not only ESL teachers—are, in many ways, English teachers. In this book, Popko explains in practical, easy-to-understand terms the challenges that English learners face when it comes to reading. He covers the most pertinent and pressing matters impeding the learning of those students, including standards, such as the Common Core State Standards, and how content-area teachers can scaffold student instruction to meet those standards; language needs, such as the knowledge and information English learners should focus on in order to read at grade level; and sociocultural factors, such as widely ranging cultural experiences and background knowledge.

This book provides countless strategies and resources, helpful background information and reflection questions, and invaluable suggestions and tips for helping your English learners overcome their reading challenges and achieve academic excellence.

Jeff Popko has taught ESOL in Japan, Hawaii, Spain, and Indonesia. He is a professor of ESL and TESOL at Eastern Michigan University, where he teaches and prepares teachers to teach English to speakers of other languages.