The Role Of Material In A Language Classroom

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THE ROLE OF MATERIALS IN A LANGUAGE CLASSROOM Textbooks are key component in the most language programs. In some situations they serve as the basis for much of the language input learners receive and the language practice that occurs in the classroom. They may provide the basis for the content of the lessons, the balance of skills taught and the kinds of language practice the students take part in. For learners, the text may provide the major source of contact they have with the language apart from input provided by the teacher. The use of commercial textbooks in teaching has both advantages and disadvantages, depending on how they are used and the contexts for their use. Advantages of Commercial Textbooks 1. They provide structure and a syllabus for a program; without textbooks, a program may have no central core and learners may not receive a syllabus that have been systematically planned and developed. 2. They help standardize instruction; the use of a textbook in a program can ensure that the students in different classes receive similar content and therefore can be tested in the same way. 3. They maintain quality in that when a well developed textbook is used, students are exposed to materials that have been tried, tested and that are based on sound learning principles. 4. They provide a variety of learning resources. Textbooks are often accompanied by workbooks, CDs and Cassettes. Videos and comprehensive teaching guides, providing a rich and varied resource for teachers and learners. 5. They are also efficient and save teachers time thereby enabling them to devote time to teaching rather than material’s production. 6. They can train teachers if they have limited teaching experience. A textbook together with the teacher’s manual can serve as a medium of initial teacher training. However, there are also limitations of using a commercial textbook
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