Learning and Not Learning English: Latino Students in American Schools

by Guadalupe Valdés

Focusing on the lives and experiences of four Mexican children in an American middle school, the critically acclaimed author of Con Respeto examines both the policy and the instructional dilemmas that surround the English language education of immigrant children in this country. Using samples and analysis of the children's oral and written language as well as an examination of their classrooms, school, and community, this book addresses the difficulties surrounding the teaching and learning of English for second language learners. This comprehensive volume discusses:


classroom activities the amount of time it takes to "learn" English how English language learning affects learning in other areas the consequences of linguistic isolation how ESL students are tested It also presents exclusive data on academic English development at various stages in a two-year process that raise important questions about current ESL teaching policies.

Genres: Education, Nonfiction, Teaching, Linguistics

176 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2001

Reviews

[Dana Schroeder · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book follows the educational experiences of four recently arrived Hispanic immigrants to the United States. The book comments on strategies and misunderstandings concerning the teach of English as a second language. It also covers the various theories about language acquisition and the questions surrounding the Americanization of our newest influx of immigrants. This is a good book for educators or administrators faced with the new challenges of teaching an ESL population, but it is not a book for educators with existing background and experience serving ELLs.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4.0
This was a very dense read about ESL students falling through the cracks of our American school system. These students came here to be educated instead they were just let down by a school system who didn't even hold an once of ambition for them to begin with. It was a hard book to read, especially the case study sections of Elisa, Lilian, Bernardo, and Manolo. I would read again for school purposes. Valdes did a good job with this study.

[Bianca Palucci · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will open your eyes to how the education system is failing our immigrant students, particularly those of hispanic heritage. It has inspired in me the desire to help those students achieve their greatest potential by understanding what each student needs in order to thrive in school and the greater American society.

[Nicholas · Rating 3 out of 5]

Excellent case study of 4 Latino middle schoolers and the limitations of their ESL experience. Decent proposals, though rather brief here. Even weaker in delving into the larger political issues. (although I mostly agree with the recommendations and analysis on both counts.)

[Morgan]

Really enjoyed this book and following the students in ESL, I learned a lot about the system and I found that I can compare it to my own experiences in my Spanish journey...

[Amber Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book on case studies of ELL students in CA throughout years and what inputs helped them succeed in language and life.

MUST READ of any ELL teacher.

[Marilee C-R · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciated following the journeys of middle school Latino/a who were learning English in their schools. Valdes demonstrates how their complex lives need schools that can better accommodate their needs. While it is important that these students are not placed in an ESL ghetto, it is also important to let schools know that they need to design instruction that scaffolds their learning as they progress. Sheltered course are needed as well as on going authentic assessment.

[Jamie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book for ESL teachers and others who care about Latino progress in schools.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book gives you a glimpse into the struggles of ESL students in school. It helps you see language issues from a new perspective and shows why so many ELLS fail to acquire proficiency in English.

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read #1
Started on November 11, 2015
Finished on November 21, 2015
3.5 stars