Wikipedia defines content-based instruction as “a significant approach in second language acquisition, . . . [in which] content is interpreted as the use of subject matter as a vehicle for second or foreign language teaching/learning.” This means that for both native and non-native speakers of English, language (pronunciation, sentence structure, vocabulary, phrasing, etc.) is acquired; skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing) are improved naturally or automatically through stimulating content. Subject matter may be determined by curriculum requirements (language arts, math, science, social studies, citizenship, music, art, phys ed, etc.) or “dictated” by adult interests and needs (everyday life, health, finances, work, social interaction, current events, politics, etc.)
At least in academic circles and programs, the goals of language education, including language skills improvement, are not generally considered ends in themselves. Hopefully, students will also learn how to learn, expand their curiosity, love knowledge, enthuse about lifelong learning, develop critical thinking skills, want to read and research, become better communicators, and go on to successful academic and professional careers and lives.
The same principle holds in non-academic, practical, or competency-based language instruction. Its purposes may include “survival” in an English-speaking environment, competence in the activities of daily living, enjoyable and effective social interaction, fulfillment of family or group obligations, occupational competence and advancement, positive attitudes toward society, contributing to the common good, and self-satisfaction in personal development.
In all of these goals, language-skills development and improvement tend to merge with “content” (the subjects and sub-topics that people want or need to master or are interested in) and “culture” (assumptions, ideas, beliefs, values, and knowledge of society).
The Authors & Editors products that target “Content & Culture” directly are: Biographies (Short, Short Stories Based on the “Messages” of People’s Lives); A Journey Through America and English Through Citizenship: the Game (Americana); Holiday Happenings (Halloween and Thanksgiving); and the Game of Knowledge: Agreeable Aging. Ideas V, W, X, Y, and Z in (Still) Doing Without the Photocopier focus on content, materials, procedural steps, and level adaptations in lessons designed to teach specific subject matter. The chapters of major textbook series such as Grammar Scenario and the HandsOnEnglish ETC Program have “content themes.” And finally, nearly all of the instructional material in A & E’s “Word-Level,” “Phrases & Sentences,” “Grammar & Structure,” and “Language Skills” categories—as well as the suggestions in its How-to Resources, is “contextualized.” This means that no matter the size of the bits and pieces to be taught or learned, they have meaning in the context of valuable and valued educational “Content & Culture.”
The titles of our print products appear in an Alphabetized Authors & Editors Product List. These student texts, workbooks, card and board games (with accompanying Activity & idea Books), teaching / learning resources, and more can be purchased online at the Authors & Editors Online Store --or by FAX, mail, or phone.
More information about products is available in the print or Online Authors & Editors Creative Language Teaching & Learning Catalog. For other (no-cost) materials based on the same pedagogy, concepts, principles, or ideas, click on Teaching Tools, Tips, & Techniques.
