Assignment C - Part 1

An Evaluation of Cutting Edge Advanced

 Use the checklist from unit 10 ('Evaluating course book material') to write a general evaluation
of the book.
 You won't be able to comment on all items as you only have one unit and the contents, but say
as much as you can.
 This must be presented as a coherent essay, not just a list.
 Then say whether you personally would like to use the book with an advanced class and why or
why not - this is just your opinion, so there is not a right or a wrong response to this part.
 You do not need to refer to the class described for Part 2 of this assignment.
 Write 300 - 500 words.

Upon reviewing the 'Cutting Edge Advanced' book, I believe it has a well-thought-out structure. A
brief overview of its pages reveals a systematic progression, where each lesson seems designed to
naturally flow into the next, providing learners with a smooth and coherent experience.

The materials are graded well in terms of difficulty. During classroom interactions, students should
find the content both accessible and challenging. As a spotlight on its efficacy, the first unit offers a
diverse range of exercises. This variety ensures students gain a rounded experience, touching on
multiple skills in each lesson. From reading comprehension to practical application, the exercises
are aimed at not just academic ability but real-world applicability.

One of the few initial drawbacks was the absence of a teacher's guide within the provided
materials. However, after some searching, I was fortunate to find one. This guide, if I opt to use it,
will be invaluable, offering step-by-step guidelines for each lesson, along with the answers to
exercises, ensuring that the teaching process is as seamless as the learning one.

A good addition is the inclusion of a digital pack, enriched with audio resources. These audio
materials offer students an avenue to enhance their listening skills and practise their lessons in
their own time, thereby promoting self-driven learning. Visually, the book strikes a pleasant
balance with its illustrations. They're designed to be more than mere decorative elements; they
bolster comprehension, breaking down complex ideas into easily digestible visuals.

The diverse activities in the initial unit show a conscious effort to keep the learning environment
dynamic. These tasks are not just repetitive drills; they are crafted to engage the students and
spark curiosity. This dynamism ensures that lessons aren't monotonous. Moreover, the text
content selected aligns well with the intended proficiency level of the book, making it neither too
daunting nor too simplistic for the learners.

Given the unique demographics of the students I anticipate teaching—those residing in English-
speaking locales—this book appears to be a suitable choice. Contemporary topics like
globalisation, which are both relevant and engaging, are introduced, ensuring that classroom

© 2020 The TEFL Academy. All rights reserved. 1

discussions are both enlightening and grounded in real-world contexts.

In conclusion, the 'Cutting Edge Advanced' book offers a promising foundation for English
instruction. With the addition of a few supplementary resources and a focus on areas like
pronunciation, I'm confident this tool will be pivotal in guiding my students towards their linguistic
goals.

© 2020 The TEFL Academy. All rights reserved. 2