This article discusses English-only policies as they relate to second language teaching for children and adults; explores popular perceptions and misconceptions about learning English; and discusses types of programs best suited for different students, depending on educational background. Examples from research and practice highlight the value of native language instruction in low-literate adults' acquisition of English, using a survey of the literature on English language acquisition and native language literacy. Links are made to current federal education policies with examples from practice. Programmatic use of English-only instruction is contrasted with bilingual and native language instruction. (Contains 4 footnotes.)