Language and Literacy for Multilingual Learners

Growing Language and Literacy: Strategies for Secondary Multilingual Learners
By Andrea Honigsfeld
(Heinemann, 2024 – Learn more)

Reviewed by Melinda Stewart

Andrea Honigsfeld’s Growing Language and Literacy: Strategies for Secondary Multilingual Learners is a multifaceted exploration of language acquisition and literacy development of secondary students.

Honigsfeld begins by sharing her assumptions of us as readers and our knowledge of the expectations of multilingual learners in the educational system and by describing the seven basic tenets on which she has built this book. She notes that she has designed the book to be accessible and ready-to-use. She is successful in her endeavor.

I appreciate her ability to seamlessly integrate theory with real-world classroom scenarios. Honigsfeld begins each chapter with student stories, reminding us all of why we do the work, and follows the stories with research-informed advice on how we can do the work. This blend, along with the beautifully illustrated and clear guides in each chapter, makes the book accessible to both seasoned educators and those newer to the field.

Meeting students’ diverse needs

One of the standout aspects of Growing Language and Literacy is its emphasis on differentiated instruction. By recognizing the diverse needs of students and connecting her ideas to the research of multiple well-respected names in the fields of language learning and equity, Honigsfeld provides strategies that cater to various proficiency levels and learning styles.

The book doesn’t just focus on linguistic aspects but also delves into the socioemotional dimensions of language learning. Honigsfeld underscores the importance of creating a supportive classroom community where language learners feel valued and empowered. Her insights into building cultural competence among educators are particularly relevant. This inclusive approach resonates deeply and reminds us that every student deserves to be considered when we are tailoring the educational experience for our learners.

Accessible structure

Another standout aspect of Growing Language and Literacy is its structure. As I mentioned earlier, Honigsfeld set out to make the book accessible to educators working with multilingual learners. As someone who serves frequently as a resource for mainstream teachers with regards to multilingual learners, I appreciated the structure of the book. It models clarity and accessibility.

Each chapter follows a pattern and focuses on supporting a specific level of language learner. As readers, we know what to expect. I not only appreciated the clarity and relevance, but I greatly appreciated the research, the multidimensional strategies, the teacher and student examples, and the reflection questions that were posed.

The book is full of suggestions and resources, but most importantly, Honigsfeld keeps students at the center throughout. The last section in each chapter includes noticing when students are ready to move on. We must notice all aspects of our learners. As I read, I thought about how to get funding to get a copy of Growing Language and Literacy for each of my school’s departments.

Growing Language and Literacy: Strategies for Secondary Multilingual Learners is not just a book about teaching language; it is a guide for inclusive and effective education. Andrea Honigsfeld’s expertise shines through every page, guiding educators toward creating dynamic learning environments where language and literacy are planned for and flourish.

Melinda Stewart has been an educator for 30 years. She has an MA in Teaching, Education and Learning and has done graduate work in the areas of English as a Second Language, Reading, Spanish, and most recently English Language Arts. She is currently working as a Spanish teacher and ELM coach at Fairmont Junior Senior High School. Melinda is an MEA and AFT professional development facilitator and trainer who has a deep passion for learning and equity.