Writing Instruction for English Learners: A Focus on Genre, Dec/2008

Teachers are looking for tested means of helping English Language Learners improve their writing, spoken English, and academic vocabulary. Because writing involves high leveláacademic vocabulary and thinking skills, many teachers focus on reading comprehension rather than writing. Mora-Flores has developed a planning method for writing that fits within any language arts program. Her method shows how writing can be taught successfully to ELLs so that they meet or exceed writing standards.This book will provide an overview of four writing genres--narrative, expository, persuasive, and poetry--and how best to teach them to English Language Learners. Within each genre, sub genres will be presented that are a part of the IRA standards. The author will show teachers how to break down each genre in order to help ELLs better understand the structure of the genre and improve their writing in that genre.

Reviews:

"It is all too easy to skip steps or assume that students already have certain skills. This book helps ensure that the proper steps are taken to allow EL students to be successful in various genres of writing."

About The Author:

Eugenia R. Mora-Flores is an Associate Professor in the Rossier School of Education at the University of Southern California (USC). She teaches courses on first and second language acquisition, Latino culture, and in literacy development for elementary and secondary students. Her research interests include studies on effective practices in developing the language and literacy skills of English learners in Grades Pre-K–12. She has written more than four books in the area of literacy and academic language development (ALD) for English learners. She also works as a consultant for a variety of elementary, middle, and high schools in the areas of English language development, ALD, and writing.