Agendas for Second Language Literacy

Description

This text examines sociopolitical, economic, familial, and educational agendas that influence attainment of second language literacy. The paperback examines the sociopolitical, economic, familial, and educational agendas that influence an immigrant's attainment of literacy in a new language. Each agenda is introduced through illuminating case studies drawn from research in North America, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Professor McKay analyzes the conflicts among different interest groups and paints a sensitive picture of how the needs of an individual may be at odds with any and all of the various literacy agendas. The book addresses teachers and teachers-in-training involved in second language education, whether their students are in special language classes, bilingual education, or enrolled in the mainstream curriculum. It also provides valuable insights to individuals responsible for developing second language literacy policies in the political, labor, and educational sectors.

'Throughout the text McKay has sensitively and effectively used "language minority" case studies to demonstrate inherent cultural differences as well as to provide valuable comparative insights ... Agendas for Second Language Literacy is a valuable reference text for those teachers and educators who are ready to participate in the conversation and for those seeking to explore and understand the issues surrounding second language literacy from a broader perspective than the classroom.' TESOL in Context, 1995 'This book is essential reading for any TESOL teachers who want to understand the broader social and political context in which they are operating ... It is both refreshing and inspiring to read a book which gives such a comprehensive overview of the political and social contexts of second language literacy. I recommend this book to lecturers of TESOL and literacy teacher training courses; and I particularly recommend it to teachers themselves who constantly battle to understand all the agendas and to do the best they can for their learners.' Prospect, 1995