TESL 0150 Unit 1 Reflection
In this blog post, I’d like to reflect
on the assigned reading from Brian Tomlinson’s book “Developing Materials for Language
Teaching”, pages 1 to 13, specifically on the use of authentic texts. In this
reading, he compares authentic texts and non-authentic texts, or scripted
texts. This appears to be a hotly debated topic as there are those who insist
authentic texts are better for learners, while others argue that scripted texts
are best (Tomlinson 2014). This applies to everything from reading materials to
listening materials.
Authentic texts are those which are
not specifically written for language learners, but rather make use of real
examples of native English. Scripted texts however, are most often simplified
and specifically highlight a grammar form.
Those that promote the use of
authentic texts argue that they “…can provide exposure to language as it is
typically used.” (Tomlinson 2014). Furthermore, they argue against scripted
texts, saying that they “…overprotect learners, deprive them of the
opportunities for acquisition provided by rich texts and do not prepare them
for the reality of language use…” (Tomlinson 2014).
However, there are some solid
arguments in favour of using scripted texts. For instance, some argue that
using authentic texts makes it more difficult for students to acquire language,
while having language structures isolated and clearly presented facilitates it (Tomlinson
2014).
Tomlinson adds his opinion on the
matter by stating that a better way to define an authentic text is one that “…is
produced in order to communicate rather than to teach.” Personally I like this
interpretation from Tomlinson because I believe that it should be the goal of
language teachers to enable their students to communicate in the target
language. As such, I think the materials used in the classroom should reflect
this. In regards to which I prefer, for now I’m on the fence. I think authentic
texts and scripted texts both have positive attributes that are desirable in a
classroom, which is why I would try to incorporate both into my lessons. I
would use more scripted texts for introducing grammar forms for the first time,
and reserve using authentic texts later on as students become comfortable with
said grammar forms. However, I have yet to teach in a classroom, so I will have
to wait and see if my opinion on the matter changes!
References:
Tomlinson, B. (Ed.). (2014). Developing materials for
language teaching. London: Bloomsbury Academic.
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