Roots and Connections is an English as a Second Language (ESL) program aimed primarily at new Canadians who may feel isolated in Alberta’s rural communities.

In this document, the authors explain how to use the Roots and Connections program in the community, noting that it is a flexible resource that can be used in informal one-on-one settings or for group lessons. They set out four steps in the planning process: identifying the need; meeting with potential participants; organizing the logistics; and selecting and training instructors and volunteers.

The authors note that Roots and Connections is based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks; is culturally integrated; and focuses on capacity building.

For more information on the Rural ESL Enhancement project, please click here: http://www.norquest.ca/cfe/intercultural/proj_RESL2.asp.