In order to help adult readers with problems, it is necessary to develop an approach to teaching them that is sensitive to language and that makes explicit reference to the way language works to make meaning in texts. A language-based approach requires teachers to become more aware of the relatively invisible language system that lies behind the text, as well as the social aspects of purpose and ideology that are always involved in making meaning through language. This approach suggests that teachers and students need to become more aware of the meaning-making powers of language as the basis for developing better teaching strategies. Some of the types of teaching strategies that may help adults with reading problems include the following: (1) cloze with discussion, focusing on chosen words; (2) modeling; (3) joint construction, encouraging students to gradually take on more responsibility; (4) building on students' field knowledge; and (5) use of the language experience approach for very low-level readers or with very anxious readers. (Contains 26 references.) (KC)