Teaching Young Children a Second Language

(Hardback)

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This volume addresses a gamut of questions of interest to teachers of young second language learners. Why do immigrant children leave their home countries, and what are their journeys to the United States like How do young children adjust to the new culture What sort of dynamic prevails in immigrant families What are young immigrants' schooling experiences like What are language learning processes like in young children The first part of the book contains an overview of recent ethnographic, sociological, and psycholinguistic research concerned with answering these questions. The second half of the volume focuses on classroom practice. Gordon provides an extensive overview of activities that have been proven to be effective with young language learners. Practical recommendations contained in these pages flow directly from the classroom. Gordon describes innovative second language lessons developed and implemented by ESL teachers who work with language learners enrolled in primary grades. The book places special emphasis on those instructional strategies that stir young language learners' interest while stimulating their linguistic and cognitive development.

Reviews

Beginning with a historical perspective on immigration to the United States, the author compares the past and present in second-language instruction. Chapters address literacy skills, grammar, content area, and multicultural second-language literature. Cognitively enriching lessons are included, as well as the use of technology and assessment. * Curriculum Connections *
Gordon examines current research on young immigrants' lives and language learning experiences in the U.S. Coverage includes an overview of recent sociological and ethnographic studies of children's immigration and research on various aspects of children's second language development, followed by summaries of some of the most important methodological concerns pertaining to teaching young language learners. The text includes samples of good practice and practical recommendations, including descriptions of innovative second language lessons developed and implemented by ESL teachers working with language learners enrolled in the primary grades. For preservice and practicing teachers, parents, and administrators. * Reference & Research Book News *

Author Bio

Tatiana Gordon is Associate Professor in the School of Education and Allied Human Services and the Director of a teacher preparation TESOL program at Hofstra University.