Recent research in second language acquisition (SLA) suggests that cultural pluralism can be an effective approach to assisting immigrants blend into the majority society. This handbook was designed to assist educators to be responsive and sensitive to the needs of a group of Kurdish political refugees who recently resettled in Idaho. It provides information on Kurdish culture and society, potential intercultural barriers that may be encountered within American schools and society, and practical suggestions for meeting children's educational needs. The handbook is based on library research, interviews with local school staff and community agencies, and first-hand observations and interviews of the Kurdish community. The handbook focuses on how Kurdish customs may conflict with American cultural and educational beliefs and practices. The educational suggestions it advances are based on established SLA theory and practice and reflect trends toward whole-language, student-centered learning. (Contains 26 references.) (MDM)