W1A-011 ELT texts-3.txt
Sue Mullins - 10/04/02

Task 1

a) The purpose of the text is to present the grammar focus 'definate and indefinate articles' in context. The text has been constructed specifically for this purpose as the examples are clearly laid out. It combines elements of both deductive and inductive in that the rules are clearly given, yet the student must choose which rule is being applied. The text is helping them to notice when and where to use articles and encourages cognitive thinking as they have to work things out for themselves.

b) The usefulness of the Grammar Reference section is limited because of the specific terminology and the information over-load. It is useful, however, in relation to this short text as the no. of examples of articles are limited and the students are not required to read every rule but rather to scan the Grammar Section for the appropriate answer. Any activity requiring more detailed analysis of the Grammar Section would be a chore for the students and a case of too much information all at once. It would hinder their ability to apply the rules if they were not first limited and shown in context.
