Assignment C, Part 1 - An Evaluation of Cutting Edge Advanced
Use the checklist from unit 10 ('Evaluating course book material') to write a general
evaluation of the book - you won't be able to comment on all items as you only have one
unit and the contents, but say as much as you can.
This must be presented as a coherent essay, not just a list.
Then say whether you personally would like to use the book with an advanced class and
why or why not - this is just your opinion, so there is not a right or a wrong response to
this part. You do not need to refer to the class described for part 2 of this assignment.
300 - 500 words
Overall, I was impressed with presentation of the sample provided and believe it would be
appropriate for an advanced class of 18 years and older based on the mature nature of the
topics. I think the study units are arranged logically and the topics are current, varied,
relevant and interesting; I was curious to read more. The sample supplied was very
informative, the vocabulary practical, the grammar point (continuous verb) and topic
appropriate. It follows the basic lesson structure, having a warmer, body and plenary. The
content is modern and cosmopolitan, there is no cultural bias or offensive content that I
could acertain.
Each study unit seems to be consistently structured, well-formulated and thorough. It
clearly sets out what is expected from the student and what material will be covered in the
study unit. The order of language items appear to be logical and appropriate. The course
book includes a language summary, grammar reference pages, vocabulary lists and many
communication activities, giving the student many opportunities to practice independently
or in pairs. The text uses functional language and equal attention is given to all four skills
(reading, writing, listening and speaking). There is a selection of tasks provided, covering
vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation and the four skills already mentioned. The student has
a range of different activities to practice, recycle and revise material. Based on the number
of exercises provided for in this sample study unit, the student will most certainly have
exercises to complete independently of classwork. The activities are varied, challenging,
interesting and require creativity from the student which should inspire the student to
engage themselves in class and use the course book independently. If the content was
stale and irrelevant the student would hardly refer to the course book and this would
negatively impact the student’s progress in learning the target language. The reading text
was authentic, interesting and relevant. Based on the sample, I would assume the audio
scripts are of a good standard and reflect authentic content and natural accents. The
exercises and teaching points are very practical, for example ‘Points of argument’ (p11) and
‘Useful language’ (p13). I also believe the study units can be adapted to add other activities
if there is a need to further practice any particular skill in greater detail.
Use the checklist from unit 10 ('Evaluating course book material') to write a general
evaluation of the book - you won't be able to comment on all items as you only have one
unit and the contents, but say as much as you can.
This must be presented as a coherent essay, not just a list.
Then say whether you personally would like to use the book with an advanced class and
why or why not - this is just your opinion, so there is not a right or a wrong response to
this part. You do not need to refer to the class described for part 2 of this assignment.
300 - 500 words
Overall, I was impressed with presentation of the sample provided and believe it would be
appropriate for an advanced class of 18 years and older based on the mature nature of the
topics. I think the study units are arranged logically and the topics are current, varied,
relevant and interesting; I was curious to read more. The sample supplied was very
informative, the vocabulary practical, the grammar point (continuous verb) and topic
appropriate. It follows the basic lesson structure, having a warmer, body and plenary. The
content is modern and cosmopolitan, there is no cultural bias or offensive content that I
could acertain.
Each study unit seems to be consistently structured, well-formulated and thorough. It
clearly sets out what is expected from the student and what material will be covered in the
study unit. The order of language items appear to be logical and appropriate. The course
book includes a language summary, grammar reference pages, vocabulary lists and many
communication activities, giving the student many opportunities to practice independently
or in pairs. The text uses functional language and equal attention is given to all four skills
(reading, writing, listening and speaking). There is a selection of tasks provided, covering
vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation and the four skills already mentioned. The student has
a range of different activities to practice, recycle and revise material. Based on the number
of exercises provided for in this sample study unit, the student will most certainly have
exercises to complete independently of classwork. The activities are varied, challenging,
interesting and require creativity from the student which should inspire the student to
engage themselves in class and use the course book independently. If the content was
stale and irrelevant the student would hardly refer to the course book and this would
negatively impact the student’s progress in learning the target language. The reading text
was authentic, interesting and relevant. Based on the sample, I would assume the audio
scripts are of a good standard and reflect authentic content and natural accents. The
exercises and teaching points are very practical, for example ‘Points of argument’ (p11) and
‘Useful language’ (p13). I also believe the study units can be adapted to add other activities
if there is a need to further practice any particular skill in greater detail.
