Problem-Posing at Work: English for Action

This student book contains 30 lessons that focus on workplace themes and issues related to the working lives of immigrants and refugees. Inspired by the problem-posing approach of Paulo Freire, this book invites learners to share and analyze their experiences, to acquire the language, skills, and information necessary for greater power over their circumstances, and to strategize together for changes. Originally published in 1987 as ESL for Action, this revised edition is updated to incorporate a focus on the effects of globalization on workers' lives while its scope is expanded to include information about Canada as well as the U.S. It includes authentic photos and stories of workers active in their workplaces and communities. The text is intended for intermediate to advanced ESL students in workplace, pre-vocational, vocational, community-based, union, and labour education programs. Special features: • Dozens of activities that can be completed independently, with a partner or in a small group. • Contextualized grammar, literacy, and communication skills. • Information about workers' rights. • Tools for investigating workplace health and safety and other issues. • Photos of immigrant workers by David Bacon. • Stories and narratives of immigrant workers (including excerpts from Miriam Ching Louie's Sweatshop Warriors, South End Press). • Readings and analysis about the effects of globalization on immigrant workers and the response of worker organizations. • Information relevant to U.S. and Canadian work contexts. "English for Action is an exciting classroom text that takes seriously the complex lives of adult ESL immigrants in workplace contexts. It is insightfully structured and attractively illustrated, providing a wealth of resources for teachers and learners." Bonny Norton, TESOL Quarterly, 2007. Volume 41, Number 1