Should the goal of a literacy volunteer be to teach reading to adults who cannot read ; or to?

Question

teach English as a second language to immigrants ? Or both ? Why ?

Answer 1

I think the gift of reading in general is one of the best things you could give someone, so if i had to chose, i would say to teach reading to adults. My reasoning would be that at least immigrants can probably read in their original language, and people who can't read at ALL, are worse off. That's my weird reasoning, but seriously- i think teaching someone to read- esp. an adult- is priceless and an awesome goal to set, and to take part in.

Answer 2

That would depend on whether you know Spanish or not...and your own beliefs on how you feel you can best help. I know Spanish, and my community in Texas has many non-English speaking people who cannot afford the commercial courses offered. I may not speak as well as their teachers, but as a volunteer, I would be charging nothing. So I feel I could help better in this area. Plus it's an area that interests me because I get along well with migrant workers and their families. So I would choose this as "my" goal. But that's not saying my goal is better than your goal.