Additional information
by Ruth Ticktin (Author), Barbara Emilio (Author)
What's Ahead? helps students explore real-world career options while developing the language and academic skills needed for success in the modern workplace. Focusing on fields projected to grow in the 21st century--such as health care, computer technology, hospitality, education, and entrepreneurship--the book introduces practical vocabulary and authentic materials drawn from each profession. Each chapter features a focused reading, a first-person reflection from someone working in that field, and real-world documents like job postings, schedules, or training forms that bring the work environment to life. With integrated vocabulary building, critical thinking, discussion, and writing tasks, What's Ahead? connects English learning to students' personal goals, helping them prepare for both study and employment in career pathways that matter.
Features- Thematic chapters highlighting major career sectors: health care, technology, hospitality, education, and entrepreneurship
- Realistic readings paired with worker reflections that humanize each career path
- Authentic realia such as forms, schedules, and job ads to build real-world literacy
- Integrated vocabulary, comprehension, and discussion exercises for active engagement
- Research and writing prompts that connect language learning to career goals
- Real Stories, Real People by Tana Reiff -- Presents inspiring true accounts of people overcoming challenges in work and life, building motivation and language skills together.
- Money by David Kehe and Peggy Dustin Kehe -- Teaches everyday financial vocabulary and skills that support workplace readiness and independent living.
- Health by David Kehe and Peggy Dustin Kehe -- Builds language and cultural understanding for health care contexts, a major field featured in What's Ahead?
- Cultural Differences by Raymond C. Clark -- Builds intercultural awareness and academic reading skills through topics about customs, values, and perspectives around the world.
Author Biography
Ruth Ticktin has coordinated programs, advised students, and taught ESL and writing in Washington, DC and Maryland since 1977. In addition to co-authoring What's Ahead, she presented at TESOL 2016 and NCTN World Education 2018. Barbara D' Emilio is a long-time educator focusing on ESL and family involvement in schools through storytelling and action research.
