In this workshop, we investigate research-based principles and practices that support adult ESOL learners’ second language acquisition (SLA). Our exploration is guided by some of the most intriguing questions that ESOL teachers face: What stages do learners go through as they acquire English? What individual factors may impact learners’ progress? What is authentic interaction and why is it so effective in language acquisition? Which instructional strategies, questions and corrective feedback can we use to encourage language development? The answers to these questions, gleaned from SLA research, will help ESOL teachers make effective instructional decisions. The workshop includes opportunities to collaborate on designing communicative classroom activities that promote meaningful interaction and address the College and Career Readiness Standards for Adult Education.