This training guide has been developed to help instructors use Roots and Connections, an English as a Second Language (ESL) program aimed primarily at new Canadians who may feel isolated in Alberta’s rural communities.

The authors note that instructors using the program play three roles: ESL teacher; cultural bridge; and community connector. They have provided a self-assessment exercise to help instructors measure their strengths in each of those roles.

The authors also break down the facilitation process into six steps: assessing the learners; framing lessons using learning outcomes; building a lesson plan; reflecting on cultural considerations; connecting to the community; and preparing for the first class.

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