Top ESL Books for Teaching Adult Learners

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As a teacher of adults, you understand the importance of creating an effective learning environment that aligns with your students’ learning needs. A crucial part of this process is selecting suitable learning materials, such as ESL course books.

Adults often have unique motivations and expectations on their learning. This means that the choices you make when selecting your ESL materials can significantly impact both the effectiveness of their learning and the enjoyment of your teaching experience.

In this post, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most popular ESL course books that you can use to support your TESOL/TEFL and TEAL skills when teaching English in the adult learner classroom.

Let’s start our journey by first exploring what one should keep in mind when choosing a good ESL book for teaching adults learners.

How do you choose a good ESL book for teaching adults learners?

As adult learners typically have more defined goals and expectations for their language studies compared to young learners, it’s crucial to select books and materials that not only meet their learning needs but also incorporate authentic content with real-world applications.

While there is no single ‘best’ book that is suitable for all contexts and learning needs, it is important to recognize that not all books are equally effective or appropriate for your students.

To properly evaluate and determine the most suitable books for your adult ESL learners, consider the following key factors:

Let’s now explore some of the most popular books you should consider for your adult ESL lessons!

Speakout — Pearson Education

“Speakout” is an eight-level book series by Pearson Education that is known for its practical approach to English learning, which incorporates authentic BBC material to create a contextually rich environment for learners. Each unit is designed to build both fluency and confidence through real-life examples and practical language usage.

English type: Available in two versions — British English and American English

Language level: A1-C1 for the American version, A1-C2 for the British version (CEFR)

Suitable for: 

• Engaging learners with up-to-date media resources.
• Improving listening and speaking skills through authentic BBC videos.
• Classes that value a communicative approach to language learning.

Headway — Oxford University Press

“Headway” is a six-level staple book series by award-winning authors, Liz and John Soars (Oxford University Press), which offers a comprehensive grammar syllabus with a balanced mix of spoken and written English. Its structured methodology ensures that students confidently progress from one level to the next with constant reinforcement of language skills.

English type: Available in two versions — British English and American English

Language level: Beginner to advanced / A1 – C1 (CEFR)

Suitable for:

• Systematic instruction and thorough practice in all four language skill areas.
• Students who benefit from a clearly defined grammatical framework.
• Teachers looking for a resource that supports both classroom learning and self-study.

Interchange — Cambridge University Press

“Interchange” by Cambridge University Press is a four-level book series that has been trusted by millions of learners and teachers worldwide. It focuses on improving spoken communication, and grammar and vocabulary through active contextualised practice. Each new edition updates its content to reflect the latest trends and information.

English type: Available in American English

Language level: A1-B1 (CEFR)

Suitable for:

• Dynamic classes focused on improving conversational skills.
• Learners who need contextualised practice in grammar and vocabulary.
• Use of multimedia tools for a blended learning approach.

English File — Oxford University Press

The “English File” series by Oxford University Press is a very popular eight-level book series that focuses on improving language comprehension through a blend of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Driven by a principle that fun and motivating lessons lead to successful learning, it includes practical scenarios and common phrases, making it ideal for adult learners’ daily use.

English type: Available in two versions — British English (English file — 8 book levels) and American English (American English file — 6 book levels)

Language level: A1 – C1+ (CEFR)

Suitable for:

• Adults looking to use English effectively in real-world contexts.
• Classes that enjoy varied, culturally rich learning materials.
• Enhancing communicative abilities through practical language use.

Face2Face — Cambridge University Press

The “Face2Face” series is a six-level book series by Cambridge University Press uses a communicative methodology to provide adult learners with the language skills they need to speak and listen effectively in English. It integrates a structured review of key grammar points and vocabulary from previous levels, making it excellent for steady progress.

English type: Available in British English

Language level: Beginner to advanced / A1-C1 (CEFR)

Suitable for:

• Students who need a solid foundation in practical English use.
• Classroom environments that thrive on interaction and role-play.
• Learners preparing for social and functional communication in English.

Life — National Geographic Learning

Bringing breathtaking imagery from National Geographic to the classroom, this six-level “Life” series by National Geographic Learning, engages adult learners with fascinating content and stories that inspire learning and teach English. It’s designed to develop language and critical thinking skills through its thematic lessons that reflect real-world situations.

English type: Available in two versions — British English and American English

Language level: Beginner to advanced / A1 – C1 (CEFR)

Suitable for: 

• Expanding vocabulary and knowledge through engaging content.
• Enhancing understanding of global issues and diverse cultures.
• Classes that benefit from visually-driven teaching materials.

English for Everyone — DK

This four-level innovative series by publisher DK covers language learning from the basics to advanced communication with clear visuals that engage learners at every level. Its unique visual learning system is simple yet comprehensive, ideal for those who prefer a straightforward approach to English mastery.

English type: Covers both American and British English

Language level: A1-C1 (CEFR)

Suitable for:

• Self-study learners looking for a visually engaging way to learn English.
• Classes that incorporate a strong visual methodology in teaching.
• Quick reference and practice for learners of all levels.

English Grammar in Use — Cambridge University Press

“English Grammar in Use” by Raymond Murphy (Cambridge University Press) is one of the go-to grammar reference for intermediate learners. It’s renowned for its clear explanations, practical examples, and self-study exercises. There are also two more levels available — one beginner level (Essential Grammar in Use) and one advanced level (Advanced Grammar in Use).

English type: Available in both British and American English

Language level: B1-B2 (CEFR)

Practical English Usage — Oxford University Press

“Practical English Usage” by Michael Swan (Oxford University Press) is another staple book resource in the ESL teacher’s toolkit. This comprehensive resource addresses complex grammar points and clarifications, making it perfect for advanced learners and teachers needing deeper insights into English usage.

English type: Mainly British English, but details the contrasts between British and American English

Language level: Upper intermediate to advanced / B2-C2 (CEFR)

Not only are these two books great to use as inspiration when planning your own lessons and grammar activities, but they also provide an excellent way to brush up on your own grammar knowledge so that you are able to handle any grammar questions that are thrown your way in the ESL classroom.

Final thoughts

Choosing a suitable textbook for teaching English to adult learners is a crucial part of your overall planning process. While these books provide robust support for developing your students’ personal, professional, and academic language skills, it’s essential to view them as supplementary tools that allow your hard-earned teaching skills to blossom.

As your students advance and their needs evolve, remain flexible in your approach, and adjust your methods to continue meeting their learning requirements effectively. Remember, the best teaching resources are those that not only meet educational standards, but also engage and motivate learners to reach their full potential.

If you have experiences with these books or additional recommendations, feel free to share them in the comments to assist your fellow educators in their teaching journey!