Research has shown that one of the primary indicators of how quickly an adult will learn a new language is their educational level in their first language. Those with high literacy levels in their first language will almost universally outperform their peers with lower levels of education. Working with preliterate adults presents unique challenges for English language educators.
This session will focus on how to effectively serve adults with little-to-no literacy in their first language (L1). Through academic research and observation of students and tutors' successes and struggles, Steven will share multiple strategies and activities to help educators working with preliterate adults trying to learn to speak, read, and write in English. He will also discuss the causes of low L1 literacy and how this impacts L2 acquisition.
