From theory to textbook: Constructing language materials for young learners

Ken Beatty

doi:10.5294/laclil.2012.5.2.7

Authors

Ken Beatty Author Anaheim University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5294/laclil.2012.5.2.7

Keywords:

enseñanza de segundas lenguas, Inglés, libros de texto, enfoque comunicativo .

Abstract

Second language materials for young learners are often deceptive in their simplicity. They appear to be easy to create because their content spans a limited range of grammatical forms and vocabulary. However, beyond the challenging process of selecting such content are the underlying theoretical concepts, methodologies and approaches that inform well-constructed learning materials. This paper outlines considerations that go into creating a textbook series for young learners in terms of views of language learning, the communicative approach, a notional-functional syllabus, comprehensible input and output, task chains, learner-centeredness, the negotiated curriculum, and autonomy.

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Author Biography

Ken Beatty, Anaheim University

Dr. Ken Beatty is author/co-author of 130+ textbooks used worldwide from the primary to tertiary levels. Most of his publications focus on various aspects of English as a Second Language but also include the graduate-level textbook, Teaching and Researching Computer Assisted Language Learning, now in its second edition. His most recent book is LEAP: Listening and Speaking (Pearson Canada, 2012) He has given 75 conference presentations and more than 200 teacher training presentations throughout Asia, Canada, and the Middle East. He was the recipient of a 2007 Canadian Association of Community Educators Award. Dr. Beatty has worked at colleges and universities in Canada, China, Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates and is currently TESOL Professor at Anaheim University. He lives on Bowen Island, Canada, with his wife and two sons.

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