problem). - If the task is based on a text, Ss read part of it.
The task cycle
Task
- The task is done by Ss (in pairs or groups) and gives Ss a chance to use whatever language
they already have to express themselves and say whatever they want to say. This may be in
response to reading a text or hearing a recording.
- T walks round and monitors, encouraging in a supportive way every one's attempts at
communication in the target language.
- T helps Ss to formulate what they want to say, but will not intervene to correct errors of
form.
- The emphasis is on spontaneous, exploratory talk and confidence building, within the
privacy of the small group.
- Success in achieving the goals of the task helps Ss' motivation.
Planning
- Planning prepares for the next stage, when Ss are asked to report briefly to the whole class
how they did the task and what the outcome was.
- Ss draft and rehearse what they want to say or write.
- T goes round to advise students on language, suggesting phrases and helping Ss to polish
and correct their language.
- If the reports are in writing, T can encourage peer editing and use of dictionaries.
- The emphasis is on clarity, organization, and accuracy, as appropriate for a public
presentation.
- Individual students often take this chance to ask questions about specific language items.
Report
- T asks some pairs to report briefly to the whole class so everyone can compare findings, or
begin a survey. (NB: There must be a purpose for others to listen.) Sometimes only one or
two groups report in full; others comment and add extra points. The class may take notes. .
- T chairs, comments on the content of their reports, rephrases perhaps, but gives no overt
public correction.
Posttask listening
- Ss listen to a recording of fluent speakers doing the same task, and compare the ways in
which they did the task themselves. The language focus
Analysis
- T sets some language-focused tasks, based on the texts students have read or on the
transcripts of the recordings they have heard. Examples include the following:
Find words and phrases related to the title of the topic or text.
Read the transcript, find words ending in s or 's, and say what the s means.
Find all the verbs in the simple past form. Say which refer to past time and which do
not.
Underline and classify the questions in the transcript.
- T starts Ss off, then Ss continue, often in pairs.
- T goes round to help; Ss can ask individual questions.
- In plenary, T then reviews the analysis, possibly writing relevant language up on the board
in list form; Ss may make notes.