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Unit 5 is titled "Teaching Themes" and provides techniques for various teaching contexts.
First, case studies are discussed. I have experience using case studies at the end of a unit as a way to tie together the vocabulary, grammar points, and target language that was learned. In my opinion, it is a great way for students to put their knowledge to use in a realistic situation and a great chance for the teacher to evaluate the students' skills at the completion of a particular unit. My students find case studies challenging but also an interesting way to review and activate their knowledge. After reading the procedural information provided in this unit, I realized that I may not be devoting enough time to the introduction and initial explanation of the process and procedures. I've also been putting my students into their groups later in the process than the text recommends. I will no doubt be putting this information to use in the near future and expect my case study lessons to improve as a result.
I appreciated the next section of the unit on frameworking. As a visual learner myself, I enjoy the clarity frameworking provides, especially for more difficult topics. Though I have used this technique many times in the past, I hadn't known the proper term for it.
Next, the unit discusses problem-based learning. I had read about the success some schools have had implementing problem-based learning into their curriculum and I believe it can be a very effective and engaging method. Unfortunately, many business English classes are simply not long enough or meet regularly enough for students to complete such tasks during a given lesson. For this reason, I prefer the Case Study approach that provides students with the framework and goals of the activity. However, I would be interested in using problem-based learning during an English workshop or other intensive program as a way for students to use the four skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing) to solve practical problems as a group.
The topic of the next section is the use of games in the business English classroom. I love to use games with my students, especially during the engage phase and on review days. In my experience, students also enjoy this chance to have fun while practicing English. It can be very motivating and help shy students "loosen up" and communicate more than usual. The text provides some great examples of common games and ways they can be adapted to a lesson. The task sheet activity got me thinking of more ways to incorporate games. I found the instruction to consider the language point and then think of a game that can be used especially important since I have been doing it the other way around.
The next section deals with computer aided learning. I began using technology, and the internet in particular, to plan carry out my lessons early in my teaching career so I'm glad that a section of the unit is devoted to this topic. I believe it's a good way to ensure materials are relevant since text books quickly become outdated. I also appreciate the useful websites it provides and plan to use these resources with my business English students.
The final method discussed in this unit is the speech act theory. I have to admit that I read this section a few times to fully understand it. I will also admit that I have no plans to implement this technique in the near future but I always find it interesting to learn about different educational theories.
To conclude this unit, sample lesson plans with relevant materials are provided. I wish to thank the authors for including materials like these. As an independent contractor, I do not get many chances to observe other teachers' lessons and/or review their lesson plans. It's wonderful to have high quality plans and materials as examples of what I can do in my own classes. I may not use the exact materials provided but they certainly act as a guide, even inspiration.
This unit had a lot of useful information that I can implement in my business English lessons. I'm a little sad that there is only one more unit left in the course! I know I have used the word "appreciate" a lot in this summary but I really do appreciate the detailed information, quality examples, and useful resources provided. Thank you.
