This text investigates the pedagogical challenges and instructional strategies required to effectively teach English as a Second Language to adult learners. Trudy Smoke, an experienced educator in the field of applied linguistics, synthesizes research on adult cognition and language acquisition to provide a framework for classroom management. The book argues that adult learners require distinct approaches that prioritize practical application, cultural relevance, and the integration of prior life experience into the learning process.

Educators frequently cite this work as a foundational resource for understanding the nuances of adult-centered language instruction. Experts highlight the text for its balance of theoretical grounding and actionable classroom strategies.