<P>This unique book provides a lively introduction to the theory and research surrounding the adult learning of English for Speakers of Other Languages. Offering a digest and discussion of current debates, the book examines a wide geographical and social spread of issues, such as:</P> <P>* how to understand the universal characteristics of learning an additional language<BR>* what makes a 'good' language learner<BR>* multilingualism and assumptions about monolingualism<BR>* learning the written language<BR>* the effect of recent Government immigration policy on language learning processes.<BR></P> <P>As a majority of adults learning ESOL are from communities of immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers, understanding the diversity of social and personal history of learners is a critical dimension of this book. It also recognises the social pressures and tensions on the learners away from the classroom and discusses various types of classroom and language teaching methodologies.</P> <P>Full of practical activities and case studies, this book is essential reading for any basic skills teacher undertaking a course of professional development, from GNVQ through to post-graduate level.</P>