Do you want to be TEFL or TESOL-certified and teach in Xinhua Nongchang? Are you interested in teaching English in Maoming Shi? Check out ITTT’s online and in-class courses, Become certified to Teach English as a Foreign Language and start teaching English ONLINE or abroad! ITTT offers a wide variety of Online TEFL Courses and a great number of opportunities for English Teachers and for Teachers of English as a Second Language.
This unit discussed the use and selection of course books and other lesson materials. There are two types of materials used in language education: authentic materials and created materials. Authentic materials are those that come from the real world. It might be a radio interview, a bus schedule, or newspaper clipping. Any material that was not created for language education purposes is authentic. These can be difficult for beginners, but still useable just maybe not at the same capacity as advanced students. These types of materials encourage students because they're understanding the language is a real context. It can be difficult to find authentic material that is appropriate for the language level and vocabulary. The other types of materials are created or any content created for the purpose of language learning. These offer benefits like being tailored exactly to the level and vocabulary of the students. Additionally, it can be designed to focus on particular problem spots that students have. From the student's perspective, these materials might be seen as boring or predictable compared to authentic materials. The final half of the unit discussed the course book. Using a course book provides well-structured materials that have been designed and tested for this exact purpose. However, relying too much on the course book doesn't allow for lessons tailored to the unique needs and interests of the students. On the other hand, under use of the course book may lead to unstructured lessons over time, lack of previous material being recovered, and a student wondering why they even bought the book. It's important to find a balance between using the course book and providing your own materials. The course book can inspire lessons, provide a starting point to add to, be adapted to the students, or replaced when not suitable.
