From leading scholar and applied linguist Paul Nation, this book describes and explains the twenty most effective and efficient language teaching techniques and why they work. Backed by decades of research and expertise, Nation examines the principles of learning connected to these techniques, as well as the factors affecting their choice and usage.
These techniques are organized around the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. For each skill, there is an opportunity for learning through meaning-focused use, an opportunity for learning through deliberate study, and a window for fluency development through working with easy material. Each technique is described and analyzed to demonstrate its learning goals and the principles of learning in use.
In demonstrating key techniques and methods for language learning, this book is particularly useful for pre-service teachers and students in applied linguistics, TESOL, and language teaching.
Introduction
Chapter 1 Language teaching techniques and the four strands
Chapter 2 A system of tasks for language learning
Chapter 3 Group work and language learning
Chapter 4 The principles of learning
Listening
Chapter 5 Extensive listening and viewing
Chapter 6 Dictation
Chapter 7 Easy listening
Speaking
Chapter 8 Informal conversation
Chapter 9 Problem-solving speaking
Chapter 10 Prepared talks
Chapter 11 Hearing and pronunciation practice
Chapter 12 4/3/2
Reading
Chapter 13 Extensive reading
Chapter 14 Intensive reading
Chapter 15 Speed reading
Writing
Chapter 16 Extensive writing with feedback
Chapter 17 Information transfer
Chapter 18 Guided writing
Chapter 19 Substitution tables
Chapter 20 10 minute writing
General purpose
Chapter 21 Linked skills
Chapter 22 Projects
Chapter 23 Vocabulary flash cards
Chapter 24 Learner training
Research
Chapter 25 Researching language teaching techniques
Appendix 1 A feedback system for writing and self-checking procedures
References
Index
Biography
I.S.P. Nation is Professor Emeritus in Applied Linguistics at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand.
