Two main instructional approaches have been used to educate English learners in California--English language development (ELD) together with academic instruction in the primary language (bilingual education), and ELD with or without Specially Designed Academic Instruction in English (SDAIE). Since the passage of Proposition 227 in June 1998,…

This review of research considers how best to teach English-language learners. A realistic appraisal of the empirical database indicates that research findings have failed to provide answers to questions about the importance of native language instruction and the best age and best methods for introducing academic instruction in English. The review…

Investigation of ways to teach English reading comprehension strategies to Spanish-proficient students, focusing on the use of primary language strategy instruction, found that primary language instruction had a central role in improving reading comprehension and in teaching non-English-proficient students comprehension strategies. (38 references)…

This study investigated whether there were significant differences in the acquisition of oral language and reading skills among limited-English-speaking, Hispanic elementary school students receiving instruction through three different bilingual reading approaches, and what other variables might be important. The three reading approaches were: (1)…

There is a widespread lack of understanding of what bilingual and English-as-a-second-language (ESL) instruction consist of, and the day-to-day classroom operations are not easy to explain. Both bilingual and ESL instruction have seen rapid expansion in recent years, and the instructional and curricular approaches have been refined. It has been…

These bilingual education teacher training materials address the critical issue of effective planning and implementation of programs of bilingual education as well as efficient program evaluation. These materials are intended to provide the practical assistance necessary for successful bilingual program implementation. The first section of the…

Ideas and guidance for literacy program tutors are offered. This guide presents the characteristics of an adult learner, in contrast to a student from elementary or high school, and describes how the relationship between the tutor and the student should be established and maintained. Goals should be set up at the beginning of the program, keeping…

This draft handbook provides descriptions and summaries of the six tests that California elementary and secondary teachers must pass to earn the Crosscultural, Language, and Academic Development (CLAD) or Bilingual, Crosscultural, Language, and Academic Development (BCLAD) certificates. The six tests include: (1) "Language Structure and…

The lives of accomplished bilingual adults who were educated in Massachusetts schools are reviewed to analyze the role of transitional bilingual education (TBE) in their lives. The 12 adults interviewed, chosen not as a representative sample, but because they have succeeded in life, attended bilingual education in Massachusetts, generally in urban…

This article outlines the educational needs of migrant exceptional children in terms of native language instruction, English-as-a-Second-Language instruction, self-concept enhancement, acculturation enhancement, and family and community involvement. The importance of the Individualized Education Program is discussed and a summary list of…

There are no good figures on the number of limited English speakers who are also illiterate in their native languages. This data is worth having because there is research indicating that literacy in the native language plays an important role in the acquisition of oral English and the development of English literacy. This digest reviews recent…

Selected papers from the state conference of the Illinois Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages include two plenary session presentations and six concurrent session presentations. The plenary session presentations are "Who's In Charge Here?" by Jesan Handscombe and "So What Do You Do In There Anyway?" by Dennis Terdy. The concurrent…

Profiles a 16-week learning unit that led students to develop literacy in their native Spanish, as well as academic and computing skills. The reading and writing assignments incorporated grammar, geography, and local and family histories to create a sense of pride in the students' community and culture. (MJP)

Reports on a study of an innovative secondary bilingual program for preliterate immigrant adolescents. Researchers compared classroom processes used in the bilingual program to those in English-as-a-Second-Language classrooms. Observations indicated no significant differences in off-task behavior. Neither group participated in many higher level…

This report focuses on linguistically and culturally diverse students who enter the formal education process from homes and communities in which English is not the primary language. These students experience unrealized academic success. Data are presented on Hispanic students as an example, showing a 40% non-graduation rate, a 35% grade retention…