ESP: The textbook problem

Evaluating the Presentation of New Vocabulary Items in Malaysian Form Three English Language Textbook

“…Based on Swales (1980), textbooks represent a problem, and in extreme cases can be examples of educational failure. One might argue that English language in Malaysia has not shown a remarkable improvement.…”

First additional language teaching in selected grade 4 – 6 classes in Western Cape urban schools: The case of Afrikaans

“…If used correctly, good materials can be a useful professional development tool (Wright 1987 Swales (1980) is of the opinion that it is almost impossible for one single textbook to cater for all the diverse needs which exist in most language classrooms, and therefore teachers should use additional materials which reach the goals and outcomes of the curriculum. Although many Afrikaans FAL textbooks, claiming to subscribe to the RNCS, have been published in the past, there was no departmental control over these materials.…”

“…Although the textbook seems to be an old and trusted companion of the language teacher, Swales (1980) raises the concern that no single given textbook will be capable of catering for the diversity of needs that exist in most language classrooms. Yet on the other hand, excellent commercial materials fulfil an important function by removing much of the burden and time involved in creating materials from scratch.…”

Rhetoric and Reality: A Case Study of a Course in English for Specific Purposes

“…Nor should it necessarily involve the creation of brand new, wholly original material if suitable or adaptable resources can be found. Swales (1980) suggests that 'it would be useful to consider the potential virtues to be found in published materials. One such virtue is that they have a clearly discernible shape: a beginning, a middle and an end' (p.18).…”