Here are suggested answers to the Think About It items in this chapter of the Online Learning Center website. - Lee and VanPatten state that topicalized or contextualized grammar is not equivalent to true communicative- and proficiency-oriented instruction. Explain what they mean by this.
Teacher’s Note: Response should include the following point(s):
- Topicalized or contextulized grammar lessons are grammar lessons that have been dressed up with a context. These lessons are not truly communicative or proficiency-oriented because they are grammar driven. The goal is to practice a particular grammatical structure, not to communicate in the sense of negotiating meaning.
- In these grammar lessons, communication is at the service of grammar rather than the other way around.
- In your own words, explain the difference between a communicative goal and a grammar goal.
Teacher’s Note: Response should include the following point(s):
- A communicative goal should state real world tasks that learners are to engage in and/or real world information that learners will receive at the end of a particular lesson or activity.
- A grammar goal is tied to particular grammar points that learners are expected to learn (e.g., how to use the subjunctive correctly).
- Identify what students need to know in order to reach the following lesson-final information-based task: Students will list various possessions that they have in their homes or dorm rooms and decide whether these items are luxury items or necessities. They will compare their responses with those of the rest of the class and then determine whether the class as a whole is “practical” or “extravagant.”
Teacher’s Note: Response should include some of the following point(s):
- Students will need to know vocabulary related to household items or other possessions.
- They will need to be able to say that they have or do not have something.
- They must be able to list items, ask questions and state and justify their opinions.
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