The Analysis and Evaluation of New Standard English Student’s Book One

孫浩

1. Introduction

More and more different versions of English teaching materials come into current marketplace. Therefore， it is obviously indispensable to evaluate and choose a high level and quality textbook facing disparate editions. As a result， this paper appraises the NSEB1 systematically.

2. Theories of English language teaching materials evaluation

2.1 Definition of Materials Evaluation

Tomlinson defines “materials evaluation as the systematic appraisal of the use of materials.” Cunningsworth also stated Materials evaluation is a complex procedure， as there are many variables that affect the success or failure of coursebooks when they are in use.

2.2 Approaches to Coursebook Eva1uation

Cunningsworth puts forward two approaches to course book evaluation， impressionistic overview and in-depth evaluation. He also concludes the three types of materials evaluation based on the stage when the coursebook is used. Pre-use evaluation is most tough as no actual experience is able to be employed. In-use evaluation means that analyzing the textbook when it is used. Post-use evaluation refers to the evaluation over a period of time which is favorable for teachers to make a decision whether to employ the same textbook later or not （abid）.

This paper will synthesize the approaches mentioned above to analyze the NSEB1 in a more comprehensive way. To be frank， the main structure of this thesis is based on the micro and macro evaluation of Qiao Ailing.

3. The brief introduction of the textbook

The textbook of New Standard English is published by Foreign Language Teaching and Research Press on the basis of new English curriculum standard which is employed by some areas of China. The chief editor is Chen Lin. Whats more， the textbook one is comprised of 6 modules， revision， workbook as well as appendices.

4. The evaluation of the textbook

4.1 the macro analysis of the textbook

The size of NESB1 is befitting for senior high school students， the basic information of textbook introduction is sufficient such as authors and preface. And the number of total pages is exact， it not just covers the indispensable contents but also is in line with norm of stapling. The entire pages of NSEB1 is color printed so that the contents are distinct which is better than black and white printing and make learners enjoy the textbook. And the pictures in the book are close to daily life which contribute to the understanding of background knowledge for students.

4.2 the micro analysis of the textbook

4.2.1 The language knowledge

Vocabulary

First of all， every module has the vocabulary box before the reading text help students acquaint with the unfamiliar items. In the second place， the word list and vocabulary in alphabetical order list the whole words of each unit in certain sequence. Finally， module file also has words in the end of module.

Grammar

The presentation in NSEB1 advocates a unique method of grammar teaching called inductive way that encourages learners to realize grammar rules without explanation.

4.2.2 The learning skills

Listening

In NSEB1， all the listening materials of every module is closely relevant to the topic of every module. On the side， there is audio script in the end of the textbook which provide more chance for learners to practice more.

Speaking

Speaking part is designed in function item and is combined with listening exercise like： work in pairs， ask and answer， which let students study in groups to cultivate the cooperative ability. The topics in speaking module are close to students daily life ，therefore they could communicate more and express opinions.

Reading

In NSEB1， there are two sections of reading text of each module， one is intensive reading which pay more attention on language points such as phrases， sentence structures， and the other is extensive reading which lays emphasis on language and culture. As for its topic， it is colorful and relates to students daily life.

Writing

In NESB1， diverse titles and genres are demanded to finish and check learners capacity in many aspects.

5. Conclusion

As for the advantage， NSEB1 is compiled original and scientific with its layout design and attractive pictures . This textbook achieves the five goals of language learning that is required and attaches importance on development of comprehensive skills. With regard to drawbacks， NSEB1 is arranged too many elements and a bit difficult in some parts . It is short of pronunciation course and additional learning materials to support learners to refer.

References：

[1]Cunningsworth，Alan.（2002）.Choosing Your Coursebook.Shanghai：Shanghai Foreign Language Education Press.