Adolescent Literacy

How to Support ELL Students with Interrupted Formal Education (SIFEs)

By: Kristina Robertson and Susan Lafond (2008)

Many English language learners come to school having had little or no schooling in their native countries, or with an interrupted education if their family has moved frequently. While educating students with interrupted formal education (SIFEs) presents many challenges to educators, they can indeed obtain a high school diploma with the right kind of support, and go on to future academic and professional success. This article provides a profile of SIFEs and their needs, recommendations of best practices, and examples of the kinds of quality school-wide and classroom support that will accelerate their academic achievement.

Library Services for Teenagers

By: Colorín Colorado (2008)

Many libraries offer services for teenagers, providing information and activities of interest to teens in the community. Just being certain that teenagers know what kinds of programs are available may be the best help you can give — that, along with setting the example of visiting the library and reading yourself.

Tips for Developing Good Reading Habits at Home

By: Colorín Colorado (2007)

Good reading habits start at home! These simple steps that you can take will help your child become a stronger reader and student.

Helping Your Child Succeed: Helpful PreK-12 Tips

By: American Federation of Teachers (2007)

Some of the main academic subjects include reading, math, social studies, and science. Whether your child is struggling in a certain area, or you just want to help them get ahead, this article contains tips you can use to help them succeed in every subject, from preschool through high school. There are also suggestions for how to make sure your children are developing socially and staying healthy.

School Issues and Program Information

By: American Federation of Teachers (2007)

All schools are held to certain standards based on federal and state laws. This article discusses some of obligations stated in The No Child Left Behind Act, which includes mandatory testing. It also describes the different programs available to English Language Learners and students with disabilities, as well as vocational and college preparatory programs.

How the School System Works

By: American Federation of Teachers (2007)

Besides your child's teacher, many other people are involved in your child's education, The more you know about what they do, the more you can help your child.

Pathways to Success:
An AFT Guide for Parents

By: American Federation of Teachers (2007)

As a parent, you want the best for your kids. The American Federation of Teachers shares your expectations and knows you can make a big difference in your child's education.

Teaching Content Areas

By: Colorín Colorado (2007)

English language learners have to learn content with their native English-speaking peers, but they have the added challenge of learning English at the same time. Here are some ways to support ELLs in learning academic content.

Reading In Middle and High School

By: Colorín Colorado (2007)

English language learners (ELLs) enter U.S. schools in all grade levels, and with a wide range of backgrounds, reading skills, English language proficiency, and content knowledge. These resources address some of the unique challenges of working with older ELLs.

Poor Children's Fourth-Grade Slump

By: Jeanne S. Chall and Vicki A. Jacobs (2003)

Teachers have often reported a fourth-grade slump in literacy development, particularly for low-income children, at the critical transition from "learning to read" to "reading to learn." This study uses Chall's stages of reading development to take a closer look.