• What does ESOL mean?
  
  ESOL refers to English for Speakers of Other Languages. It is also known as English as a Second Language (ESL). Nationally, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) is the fastest growing area of the adult basic education system. ESOL instruction is an important part of the adult education system in Ohio. Sixteen percent of students enrolled in adult education in Ohio are English language learners.
   

• What is an ABLE ESOL program?
  
  An ABLE ESOL program is based on principles of language acquisition which will prepare the individual for lifelong learning, participation in the family, the workforce and the community. Language acquisition incorporates cultural learning as well as the communication skills of listening and speaking, reading and writing. Grammar and language structure is taught only to support and/or supplement contextual language learning.

• How many ESOL students are there in Ohio?
  
  7778 students were enrolled in ABLE English language classes during FY2006. Of those enrolled, 72% were enrolled in the three lowest NRS Levels (1, 2 and 3).

• Who are the Ohio ESOL students?
  
  Countries of birth for ESOL students in Ohio that rank highest include Mexico, China, Somalia, Ukraine, Japan and the Russian Federation. Predominant languages include Spanish with 27% of the ESOL student population, Russian at 7%, Chinese and Arabic both at 6%, and then Somali with 5% of the students.

• Why do adults take English classes?
  
  Adults enroll in English classes for many different reasons. Some want to improve their language skills to get jobs or to get better jobs, others want to be able to communicate with their child's teachers and to help their children with schoolwork, and others want to be able to function and communicate better in their communities.

• What are the factors that influence second language learning?
  Motivation and success at second language learning are influenced by a variety of factors. Age, gender, personality type, learning style, cultural background, attitudes and beliefs, length of exposure to English, the effects of trauma and culture shock all can exert significant influence over the learner. In addition, other factors such as the need for childcare or the breaks from classes necessitated by work or family issues, have a significant effect on how quickly a language is learned.

Instruction in reading and writing English

Instruction in speaking and listening in English

Instruction that shares the cultural and social practices of our community

Instruction in life skills to help improve understanding of materials related to home, workplace, and the community .