Assignment C - Part 3
Essay
600-700 word Essay on Using Authentic Materials and the Internet
Please write the essay under the four headings given.
a) The value of using authentic materials in foreign language teaching:
Using authentic materials in foreign language teaching significantly enriches the learning process.
These real-world resources offer students an insight into the language as it's genuinely spoken and
written, beyond textbook scenarios. Engaging with materials like newspapers, music lyrics, or
social media allows learners to encounter contemporary vocabulary, local slang, and the
spontaneity of natural conversations. This not only heightens interest but also underscores the
relevance of their studies to everyday life.
More than just language mechanics, these materials serve as a bridge to the culture of native
speakers. They provide glimpses into societal norms, values, and nuances, ensuring students don't
just learn words but also the context in which they're used. This holistic approach fosters deeper
cultural sensitivity, which is essential for meaningful interactions.
Additionally, the unpredictability of real-world resources can sharpen critical thinking. Unlike the
structured environment of textbooks, authentic materials can be diverse and challenging, nudging
students to adapt and think on the go, simulating real conversational dynamics.
In essence, while textbooks offer foundational knowledge, authentic materials add depth, vibrancy,
and cultural resonance to language learning, creating a more rounded and immersive educational
experience.
b) Reasons for the selection of this text and the 12 vocabulary items. Rationale for changes to
text, if applicable.
When choosing the authentic material, I wanted to bring something that is very updated, focused
on technology, and that would make students curious, so they will pay attention while reading. At
the same time, I needed to bring materials that could bring new vocabulary and knowledge to
students on a C2 level. That's what I focused on when choosing the 12 worlds in the text, the
selected words were words that would be relevant to the understanding and were items that they
likely wouldn't understand due to their difficulty level.
© 2020 The TEFL Academy. All rights reserved. 1
Essay
600-700 word Essay on Using Authentic Materials and the Internet
Please write the essay under the four headings given.
a) The value of using authentic materials in foreign language teaching:
Using authentic materials in foreign language teaching significantly enriches the learning process.
These real-world resources offer students an insight into the language as it's genuinely spoken and
written, beyond textbook scenarios. Engaging with materials like newspapers, music lyrics, or
social media allows learners to encounter contemporary vocabulary, local slang, and the
spontaneity of natural conversations. This not only heightens interest but also underscores the
relevance of their studies to everyday life.
More than just language mechanics, these materials serve as a bridge to the culture of native
speakers. They provide glimpses into societal norms, values, and nuances, ensuring students don't
just learn words but also the context in which they're used. This holistic approach fosters deeper
cultural sensitivity, which is essential for meaningful interactions.
Additionally, the unpredictability of real-world resources can sharpen critical thinking. Unlike the
structured environment of textbooks, authentic materials can be diverse and challenging, nudging
students to adapt and think on the go, simulating real conversational dynamics.
In essence, while textbooks offer foundational knowledge, authentic materials add depth, vibrancy,
and cultural resonance to language learning, creating a more rounded and immersive educational
experience.
b) Reasons for the selection of this text and the 12 vocabulary items. Rationale for changes to
text, if applicable.
When choosing the authentic material, I wanted to bring something that is very updated, focused
on technology, and that would make students curious, so they will pay attention while reading. At
the same time, I needed to bring materials that could bring new vocabulary and knowledge to
students on a C2 level. That's what I focused on when choosing the 12 worlds in the text, the
selected words were words that would be relevant to the understanding and were items that they
likely wouldn't understand due to their difficulty level.
© 2020 The TEFL Academy. All rights reserved. 1
