Intended for use in adult basic education programs, for students whose academic performance is at a basic instructional level, this manual contains 20 readings, each followed by language activities. Both readings and activities emphasize various employment issues. The central focus is on readings thought to be effective in motivating and engaging the adult learner who is unemployed and who, usually, is a member of a minority group. The program is divided into six units: (1) plans; (2) unemployment, stress, and health; (3) values; (4) skills; (5) applying information; and (6) knowing about others. A chart details employment issues that are covered in each unit as well as the related rules of grammar and spelling illustrated in the reading(s). Each of the 20 readings is followed by some or all of these types of language activities: questions to assess reading comprehension, discussion questions or activities, spelling/vocabulary exercises, grammar exercises, and writing assignments. An appendix includes additional reading and language activities; forms to assess personality traits, interests, job satisfaction, and skills; and a bibliography. (YLB)