Published: May 26, 2016

A bestselling book, “Why Do English Learners Struggle with Reading? Distinguishing Language Acquisition from Learning Disabilities” by CU-Boulder School of Education researchers was recently published in its second edition.

The book asks readers do students’ reading difficulties reflect language acquisition issues or a learning disability? This essential guide helps educators make informed, accurate choices about strategies and services to support English Learners.  Developed for general and special education teachers and service providers, this trusted resource offers a variety of research-based best practices.

The book is co-written by John Hoover, associate research professor and project director for the BUENO Center, Leonard Baca, professor emeritus of educational equity and cultural diversity, and the late Janette Klingner, professor emeritus of educational equity and cultural diversity.

The book includes:

  • Nine common misconceptions that can lead to wrongful placement of students in special education;
  • Theories of second language acquisition;
  • Select evidence-based methods for teaching reading to students learning English;
  • Issues to consider and techniques to use when assessing students for special education and making data-based decisions; and
  • Role of cultural influences in reading instruction.

What’s new for 2016?

  • A dedication to Janette Klingner from former colleagues including Dean Lorrie Shepard;
  • Updated citations reflecting contemporary research and literature about English Learners (ELs) and reading, and ELs and learning disabilities;
  • Vignettes in several chapters;
  • Discussion of educational needs of students with limited and interrupted formal education;
  • Expanded coverage of response to intervention (RTI) to include the contemporary framework of multi-tiered system of supports that combines key features of RTI and positive behavioral supports in the academic and affective education of all students;
  • Expanded coverage of cultural diversity and associated behaviors in understanding learning disabilities;
  • A new chapter (Chapter 5) that describes several select research-based reading methods for teaching ELs;
  • Development of a Cultural and Linguistic Diversity reading methods table that summarizes numerous methods appropriate for helping ELs acquire different reading skills (Chapter 2); and
  • Updated select AVʪ-to-Practice examples.

To learn more, .

Related Faculty: John Hoover, Leonard Baca, Janette Klingner, in memoriam