In modern second language teaching the role of task-based learning has become a very important aspect. Due to the fact that very often exercises in EFL classrooms have no clear connection to real world situations, researchers and modern English teachers try to put emphasis on tasks which help learners to use the target language effectively in different situations outside the classroom.
This term paper has its focus on the implementation of task-based learning and teaching in EFL classrooms and the way task-based activities can be designed especially for young learners. Based on the fact that motivation plays an important role in language learning, it is also necessary to concentrate on possibilities to make the English language attractive for young learners and to help them realizing that through task-based learning activities they can learn something which can be transfered to real life situations.
Therefore, I would like to give a brief overview about task-based learning in general and the way it provides effective language learning with the help of motivational tasks in order to show that in-class language practice does not necessarily have to be an artificial situation. With a focus on young learners, I would like to concentrate on the question how to implement a task-based writing activity which supports creativity and active second language use.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- A definition of task-based learning
- Designing motivational tasks in the EFL classroom
- Improving task support - the task cycle
- Task-based writing activities in EFL classrooms
- A focus on young learners
- "My perfect home" (writing task) as an example of a task-based teaching unit in a young learners' EFL classroom
- Evaluation of the teaching unit from a task-based teaching perspective
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This term paper focuses on the implementation of task-based learning and teaching in EFL classrooms, specifically considering how to design task-based activities for young learners. The paper emphasizes the importance of motivation in language learning and explores ways to make English attractive for young learners. It aims to demonstrate that task-based learning can effectively teach English in a way that is relevant to real-life situations.
- Task-based learning in EFL classrooms
- Motivational task design for young learners
- The task cycle and its role in improving task support
- Task-based writing activities
- Transferring learning to real-life situations
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This chapter introduces the concept of task-based learning in modern second language teaching and emphasizes its importance in connecting classroom activities to real-world situations. It highlights the need to make English engaging for young learners and to help them see the practical value of their learning.
- A definition of task-based learning: This chapter contrasts task-based learning with traditional form-based exercises, emphasizing its focus on meaning and communicative outcomes. It defines task-based learning as a process that requires learners to use their linguistic resources in realistic situations, ultimately promoting natural and communicative language use.
- Designing motivational tasks in the EFL classroom: This chapter explores the importance of creating motivating tasks and introduces the "task cycle," a framework that helps teachers implement tasks effectively. The task cycle consists of three phases: pre-task, task cycle (including task, planning, and report phases), and language focus.
- Improving task support - the task cycle: This section further elaborates on the task cycle, explaining each phase in detail. It highlights the importance of activating prior knowledge, promoting interaction, and facilitating a report phase where learners reflect on their work and present their results. The section also discusses the role of the teacher as a moderator and facilitator in the task cycle.
- Task-based writing activities in EFL classrooms: This section focuses on the application of task-based learning in writing activities. It emphasizes the importance of engaging young learners in creative tasks and encouraging them to use the target language actively. It highlights the potential of task-based writing activities to promote communication and language development.
- A focus on young learners: This chapter focuses on the application of task-based learning in young learners' EFL classrooms. It provides an example of a task-based teaching unit ("My perfect home" writing task) and analyzes its implementation from a task-based teaching perspective.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The main keywords and focus topics of the text include task-based learning, EFL classrooms, young learners, motivation, task cycle, task-based writing activities, communicative goals, and real-world situations. The text explores the potential of task-based learning to create engaging and effective language learning experiences for young learners, emphasizing the importance of connecting classroom activities to real-world contexts and promoting communicative competence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Task-based Learning (TBL) in EFL classrooms?
TBL is an approach to second language teaching that focuses on meaningful tasks which require learners to use the target language to achieve a communicative outcome, mirroring real-world situations.
How does TBL differ from traditional language exercises?
Unlike traditional exercises that focus strictly on grammar and form, TBL emphasizes meaning and the practical use of linguistic resources in realistic contexts.
What are the three phases of the "task cycle"?
The task cycle consists of the Pre-task (activation of prior knowledge), the Task Cycle (task performance, planning, and reporting), and the Language Focus (analysis and practice of specific language features).
Why is motivation important for young learners in EFL?
Young learners need to see that English is attractive and useful. TBL helps by providing activities that are engaging and transferable to real-life situations, reducing the feeling of "artificial" classroom practice.
Can you give an example of a TBL writing task?
The paper discusses the "My perfect home" writing task as an example that supports creativity and active language use among young learners.
What is the teacher's role in a task-based classroom?
In TBL, the teacher acts primarily as a moderator and facilitator, guiding learners through the task cycle rather than just delivering direct instruction.
- Quote paper
- Kevin Salzmann (Author), 2013, Task-based learning and teaching in young learners' EFL classrooms, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/272677
