A variety of approaches, methods, techniques, and technologies are used in the teaching and learning process. In most cases, instruction is provided for beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels with specified goals, measurable objectives and outcomes for each level. Most of the approaches to teaching adult ESL classes focus on language functions, communicative competence, and grammatical forms or structures. Listening, speaking, reading and writing skills are taught using instructional materials with a life skills content, especially for beginning level ESL students. Program offerings vary and may include instruction in citizenship, English literacy, basic skills, workforce education, and family literacy.
Most instructional programs assess student needs and progress at regular intervals.
A needs assessment examines literacy skills, English skills, the literacy context in which the student lives and works, and what the student wants and needs to learn. Needs assessments for adult ESL students focus on students' goals, abilities, proficiencies, and accomplishments using a variety of formal and informal assessment measures. Life Skills Listening Instrument are tools used in many programs. Practitioners agree that no single assessment instrument currently exists that adequately measures student proficiency and ability levels. Therefore, a number of different assessment instruments must be used to measure student progress and achievements.