Write a 2,500-word essay on ONE of the following topics. The essay must be submitted by the deadline of 17 December 2013.
EITHER
1. “Materials writers are faced with a number of competing demands. They need to make their materials suitable for a wide variety of teachers, who have different amounts of experience, are more or less qualified, and who may have differing styles and beliefs” (Harwood, 2010: 14). Discuss the validity of this comment providing strategies and examples of best practice.
OR
2. “Most experienced teachers take the view that a textbook should be supplemented in line with learner needs and have added other ingredients to the programme such as drama, extensive reading, role-play, communication games, and debates” (Hedge, 2000: 359). Critically analyse this remark with reference to key concepts in materials design.
OR
3. “Two assumptions are generally made about ICT: it can enhance the learning experience and it is a support for the teacher” (McGrath, 2005: 352). Do you agree? Justify your answer with reference to examples which illustrate an appropriate use of technology in learning and teaching languages.
