Josie Watson from Essex Libraries tell us about one of the reading groups they run for people with English as a Second Language:
Chelmsford Chatterboxes came into existence in January 2011 as a result of frequent requests from people working and living in Essex wishing to improve their speaking and listening in English. It has undoubtedly met a tremendous need in Chelmsford helping the integration of its members into UK society.
The group has grown from strength to strength with a core membership of about 10 persons. The group meets monthly together with two English speakers to discuss a set book from the Quick Reads series. Discussion is undertaken both as a large group and then in smaller groups to enable the less confident members to participate. Particularly effective is the discussion of idiomatic phrases and colloquialisms from the book which enriches their knowledge of the English language.
The group has been particularly successful in bringing people together from all over the world thereby giving them a sense of belonging in a country which can differ vastly from their own and going some way to reducing a feeling of isolation in the UK. Through membership of the group people are introduced to the many services the library has to offer. In addition to interesting lively reading material in English, they are also exposed to practical assistance such as computer courses and careers advice which undoubtedly opens up new opportunities. We aim to create a relaxed atmosphere at the meeting and have had considerable positive feedback from its members together with a number of recommendations leading to new members.
If you run a group for English as a Second Language or adult literacy learners, do get in touch as we would love to hear about it.
