ESL614 Contemporary Immigrant Literature (1 cr.)

This course explores contemporary writings about and by immigrants adjusting to life in American society.  Common themes include struggles with dual identities, feelings of helplessness and re-entry to childhood, homesickness, experiences with prejudice, and difficulties with learning English and gaining employment.  Genres include contemporary fiction, memoir, ethnographic studies, picture books, film media, and journalistic accounts.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze the unique needs of individuals immigrating to the United States, particularly those without English language fluency and transferable job skills.
2. Compare and contrast the integration experiences of people immigrating from different cultural and economic groups.
3. Develop a framework for assessing the assimilation status of adult English learners and their needs for themselves and their children.