How can I integrate language skill development with civics content in the adult ESL classroom?
For years, topics such as U.S. history and government, civic participation, and citizenship test preparation have been included along with English language and literacy development in curriculum and practice in adult immigrant education. Now that designated monies are being provided to states and individual program there is even more interest in finding techniques, materials, and lesson ideas that will help practitioners combine language skills development and civics content. Because adult immigrants and refugees often express interest in American culture, government, and history, integrating language skills and content can be easy and natural as well as useful for classroom community-building. While the complexity of the language varies from level to level, and specific language skills might be more applicable at certain levels, significant content can be imparted at all levels at the same time learners are acquiring English. A wide variety of approaches and methods have proven effect
