Multi-text materials for the LSP classroom

Abstract

This paper introduces an idea for expanding student exposure to reading longer texts on ESP topics. It consists of sets of ESP materials (primarily for engineering) centering around a single topic, containing several authentic texts (and even videos) intended for different audiences (e.g. general, informed about science, academic). Since texts deal with the same topic (for instance, announcing a new material or technological advance) many words are repeated, but information is presented or highighted differently, and comparing texts can help learners become aware of various language and text features. Because learners do not have to comprehend a new topic in each text they read, they can work with longer texts. In addition, reading abstracts or extracts oforiginal journal articles can serve as a useful introduction to the academic level. Tips are given to help teachers assemble sets of multipletexts around topics matching the needs of their students.