Because of their limited English skills, students are not able to pick up the phone and easily get their questions answered. This book provides information that they want and need, and also provides links to agencies and other immigrants that students can contact to get additional information. They contain classroom tested ESL exercises which encourage students to use English and learn the rules of language. Reviewing the content of each lesson will give students practical information about how to live in the US and be a friend of the environment. Instructors will find the stories interesting and inspiring.
Students appreciate real representatives of their community used as role models.
The stories about real people keep them interested in the environmental issues discussed, and the exercises help them improve their English skills. In fact, anyone teaching ESL or environmental education can use these materials. The goal is to get this important environmental information to newcomers in a format that they can understand. Both textbooks were written for adult ESL programs, but are also suitable for younger students. The Minnesota Office of Environmental Assistance is committed to funding projects that provide environmental information to groups that are difficult to reach.