Simplified Notes: Materials
Development (EL 120)
RATIONALE
Learning a language isn’t just about grammar. Teachers should also focus on vocabulary to
help students better understand and enjoy reading in a second language.
TERMS TO REMEMBER
Grammar, Writing Skills, Viewing Skills, Reading Skills, Listening Skills, Speaking Skills,
Approaches, Culture, Cultural Awareness, Roles, Trends, Strengths, Criteria, Activities,
Selections, Vocabulary
PRINCIPLES IN MATERIALS DEVELOPMENT
There are two frameworks:
1. Text-driven framework: Best for textbooks and classroom materials.
2. Task-driven framework: Best for personalized and self-guided materials.
TEXT-DRIVEN FRAMEWORK: 8 STAGES
Text Collection
Choose texts that make students feel, think, and connect.
Text Selection
Pick texts that are interesting, level-appropriate, and include different genres.
Text Experience
Let students read again and think deeply about the text’s meaning.
Reading Activities
Prepare learners by teaching key vocabulary and encouraging predictions.
Experiential Activities
Let students act out or creatively complete parts of the text.
Intake Response Activities
Encourage personal reactions through short reflections and imaginative writing.
Development Activities
Promote creativity with poems, dialogues, or alternative endings.
Input Response Activities
Help learners think critically about the text and its structure.
MATERIALS FOR TEACHING GRAMMAR
Even though vocabulary and pronunciation are harder for learners, textbooks still focus on
grammar. Materials should fit learners' age, level, and cultural context. Choose grammar
topics that are useful, clear, and not too different from the learners' first language.
REPORTED SPEECH
Reported speech should be taught with context. Focus on verb choices, time references, and
how ideas change when reported. Real conversation matters more than memorizing rules.
MATERIALS FOR TEACHING VOCABULARY
Goal: Improve vocabulary for all skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking). Use a mix of
input, output, focused learning, and fluency practice.
CONDITIONS FOR LEARNING VOCABULARY
Use Noticing (bold/visuals), Retrieval (use words in tasks), and Elaboration (deep
understanding through meaningful tasks).
DESIGNING OUTPUT ACTIVITIES
Focus on 12 words, repeat them often, give clear tasks, divide roles, and provide aids like
glossaries or visuals.
FLUENCY DEVELOPMENT
Let learners use familiar language. Focus more on meaning than correctness. Encourage
faster and more confident language use.