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ABE

"Adult Basic Education" is a term that is used to describe our field as a whole as well as to describe native or fluent English speakers who are beginning or emerging readers and writers. This link will bring you to information related to teaching these learners.

ESOL

"English for Speakers of Other Languages" or "English as a Second Language" (ESL). Teaching English to adults is especially challenging due to multi-level classes and diverse educational backgrounds and cultural experiences. ESOL teachers often help with citizenship issues as well as navigating the everyday systems of the United States.

GED

The General Educational Development Exam student is hoping to pass the exam and obtain a degree. The GED 2002, difficulties with accomodations, teaching five subjects, and test-taking skills are some of the challenges faced by the GED teacher.

Native Language Literacy

Native Language Literacy (NLL) refers to teaching basic literacy and numeracy skills in the learner's native language, and is often connected
with ESOL instruction. In the West, most B/NLL programs work with Spanish speakers. Click on this link to find out about the statewide NLL group and relevant events that are happening, as well as links to information on NLL.

The Arts

The research done on Multiple Intelligence (MI) Theory supports the need for and usefulness of integrating the arts into adult literacy classroom.  This page contains information on how to integrate the various art forms into classrooms and programs as well as some research on MI.

Health

There are many issues affecting the adult learner as they attempt to navigate and take part in the health system. The Health Page will help you learn what is happening nationally and statewide in the health and literacy movement and to get ideas to integrate into your own classroom.

Distance Learning

Different from students learning alone at home with a computer, Distance Learning (DL) in ABE is an exciting new concept. Learners use video-based curriculum and meet with tutors and study groups on a regular basis. DL materials can be used as part of a "regular" classroom lesson, or can be used to supplement class-based learning.

Social Action Theater
This link will open a new browser window to the Social Action Theater web site

The WMass Social Action Theater Group addresses issues of social importance through the medium of theater. They create quality performances for adolescent and adult learners, teachers and others. They develop scenarios about social themes and structure the performance so that there is audience participation at key moments in the drama. They believe that through emotional awareness and empathy, theater can create a deeper understanding of the social issue and the people it affects. They have performed at many Massachusetts' educational and conference locations.

Diversity

Diversity in ABE encompasses a broad range of areas including issues of race, class, gender, sexual orientation, religion, culture, disabilities. The ABE teacher or administrator needs to be aware of how these issues affect his/her work and learners. Click here to find out about the work SABES is doing in this area.