Issues in Task-Based Language Teaching by Rod Ellis

Issues in Task-Based Language Teaching by Rod Ellis

Leading theorist directly addresses the issues and criticisms that surround the development and implementation of TBLT

Task-based language teaching (TBLT) is now a well-established approach to teaching foreign languages which draws on theories of second language acquisition and on general educational principles. However, there remain a number of issues that need to be considered in designing and implementing TBLT in classroom settings. This book, written by a leading theorist in the field, bridges this gap by addressing the key issues which are important for its development. These issues include the difference between task-based and task-supported language teaching, the role of input tasks, how tasks engage learners, task complexity, catering for individual differences in learners and teacher-preparation for TBLT. Overall, the book provides a comprehensive account of TBLT and makes a significant contribution to the growing literature in the field.

Ellis provides a lucid, state of the art account of the central debates in task based language teachingHe synthesizes decades of scholarship into highly readable, well argued positions that will inform research agendas and guide task design, language teaching, and teacher education into the future. A must-read for anyone serious about TBLT.

Rod Ellis is Distinguished Emeritus Professor of the University of Auckland, New Zealand and Emeritus Distinguished Research Professor of Curtin University, Australia. He is a leading scholar in the field of applied linguistics and is an elected fellow of the Royal Society of New Zealand. His work has won several awards including the Kenneth W. Mildenberger and Duke of Edinburgh book prizes.