Why Don't They Learn English?: Separating Fact from Fallacy in the U.S. Language Debate (Language and Literacy Series) [Paperback]

Lucy Tse (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0807740969 | ISBN-13: 978-0807740965 | Publication Date: September 2001

This compelling book examines the often cited but poorly supported claims that immigrants fail to learn English, and the mistaken belief that immigrant communities cling to their heritage languages. The author reveals that, on the contrary, English is being learned at a rapid pace while heritage languages are disappearing quickly from family use. She shows us how current assumptions have a pervasive influence on language policy in the United States. Ultimately, the author argues for an educational approach that effectively embraces immigrant communities as they tackle the obstacles to language learning in the United States.

This unique volume offers a short, readable introduction to these issues suitable for nonspecialists as well as educators, researchers, and other professionals.

Product Details

• Paperback: 120 pages
• Publisher: Teachers College Press (September 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0807740969
• ISBN-13: 978-0807740965
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.3 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #88,421 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

7 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars This is a great book., October 20, 2006

By 

E. Flaum "language geek" (Portland, OR USA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Why Don't They Learn English?: Separating Fact from Fallacy in the U.S. Language Debate (Language and Literacy Series) (Paperback)

A must-read for anyone who works with immigrants or language learners; for bi- or multi-linguals and those considering such for their children; and for anyone who has contributed to the spread of ignorance regarding immigrants, language learning, and bilingualism. (My grandmother will be receiving a copy.) It's an easy and interesting read, touching on a variety of topics and providing an extensive bibliography for those wishing to learn more. Enjoy!

5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Meaningful!, December 20, 2006

By 

Lynn Ellingwood "The ESOL Teacher" (Webster, NY United States) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Why Don't They Learn English?: Separating Fact from Fallacy in the U.S. Language Debate (Language and Literacy Series) (Paperback)

This book is very good at addressing the concerns of people who are afraid of the apparent lack of English fluency in immigrant populations. It is also an important resource for those of us trying to explain why those people are wrong.

5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fuel to fight the English Only people, February 13, 2007

By 

Leslie R. Wells (Los Angeles, CA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Why Don't They Learn English?: Separating Fact from Fallacy in the U.S. Language Debate (Language and Literacy Series) (Paperback)

I worked for Dr. Tse years ago, as a graduate assistant, so I'm a little biased.

The first three chapters of this book are the best. Tse presents data to prove that immigrants, in fact, are learning English. Bilingual education doesn't mean that English has to be lost. Nor does it mean that the home language must be abandoned.

It is a quick read, but still packed with information. We use it as a reference tool for arguments regarding bilingual education.