Myths and Realities, Second Edition: Best Practices for English Language Learners

Do younger children learn language faster? Were our grandparents more receptive to learning English? Should English language learners start grades below their age? These and other issues are addressed in this excellent introductory text to the misconceptions of teaching English as a second language. By dissecting the accepted practices and underlying beliefs that have shaped ESL instruction for many students, the book attempts to bring to light facets of the controversy that have not yet been adequately examined. Using simple language and a very quick read format(this may be it's one drawback as more detailed research would be the next step)it is the perfect book for a study group in a school or an introductory college class. In a nation that is facing ever increasing numbers of immigrant and native born non-English speakers, this book is a good way to begin the dialogue on how to help schools realistically help children learn to be fluent in more than one language. It is definitely worth reading.

I used this book for a ESL endorsement class- it was one of my favorite books used all year. Here's why: This book is crucial for reshaping not only teachers' perceptions, but that of anyone who interacts with an English Language Learner. McKeon covers a wide range of topics (Instruction, Assessment, Placement, Programming, Staffing, and Community) in order to break down every stigma a person may have believed to be true about people who are learning a new language. This book goes at length to promote positive framing, optimism, and creative solutions to engaging non-native speakers in a culturally respectable, responsible, and responsive way. If you are planning to teach, I highly recommend this book because there is always the chance that you will encounter a non-native speaker and this book will do wonders to promote a positive outlook to what seemed to be a struggle or challenge for your interactions or relationship with students and families.

I had to purchase this book as the second textbook for my Applied Linguistics class in graduate school. This book doesn't read like a textbook. It's easy to read and contains very interesting information. If you are interested to know what is real and what is myth in regards to immigrants and English Language Learners. I could not believe how wrong many of my concepts were until I saw the truth in black and white in this book. I would recommend that all Americans read this book to cast light on the ignorance that is running ramped within the American society. This book is a good and interesting read whether or not you are, have been, or ever will be an educator in the United States.

Love the easy explanations and the scenarios make it much more easier to understand the concepts.

Had to purchase for a class. Lots of great info and good reading

This book was required for CIL 500 at NLU. I normally am not too interested in the textbooks for the courses I take, but this one is actually pretty interesting. I used it a lot to answer many of the discussion questions. It's worth getting.

Ordered it for class, it's a smaller book than expected but it's good. Using it this semester, can't say much.

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