#82, Article: Using texts constructively: what are texts for?
"Text use may seem a dull topic after all the exciting matters that other guest writers have dealt with recently. However, language learning is, after all, learning language, not just…
#82, Susan Ryan’s Tip: Using Content, Focus & Function Words in Spoken English
When English speakers talk they emphasize the content and focus words in a sentence. That’s because these words are the most important for meaning. Function words are said quickly because these words, while needed for structure, are not always key to meaning.
In spoken English each sentence or phrase contains:
A Focus word-the most important word
Content words-very important for meaning
Function words-not important for meaning
Content Words and Focus Words
The most important words in English sentences are content words and focus words. Content and focus words are pronounced a bit louder and with a higher pitch than the other words in a sentence.
Content words are usually nouns, main verbs, adjectives, adverbs, question words, negatives and numbers. The focus word is usually, but not always, the last content word in a thought group or phrase. (more…)
#82, Research Article: ‘Types of Syllabuses in Language Teaching – ESL/EFL Context’ by Shabnum Iftikhar
The aim of this article is to present and introduce those influential types of syllabuses which are feasible in the domain of ESL/EFL and provides a rationale for the integration of these syllabuses as well.
Etymologically syllabus means a ‘label or ‘table of contents’. The American Heritage Dictionary defines syllabus as outline of a course of study. Syllabus represents the expression of educational ideas in practice. Syllabus can also be seen as a “summary of the contents to which the learners will be exposed”.
In the context of non-native countries, where English is taught as a second language, the selection of English syllabus requires a deep understanding, a comprehensive knowledge of various syllabus designs and a mature insight into the issue that which type of syllabus is indispensable to design, so that syllabus could fulfill learners’ requirements with all the paraphernalia of pedagogical objectives. Syllabus presents the complete program of study to teach academic contents in a specific time period. To gain the maximum benefits of syllabus in a limited time, it is imperative that syllabus must be designed taking into account the learners ‘needs and objectives, essential to require. (more…)