This paper outlines a procedure for language textbook analysis from the perspective of second language acquisition (SLA) principles as a preliminary procedure to evaluation for selection. The aim is to provide a tool that allows comparison of the potential of textbooks for supporting students' language learning. To this end, ten general principles…

Textbooks provide novice teachers with guidance in course and activity design; it assures a measure of structure, consistency, and logical progression in a class; It meets a learner's needs or expectations of having something concrete to work from and take home for further study; It may provide multiple resources: tapes, CDs, videos, self-study…

There are two main reasons why textbooks are evaluated; the first of which is associated to the task of textbook selection (predictive evaluation) and the second to the need to evaluate it while in use (retrospective evaluation) so that teachers can implement adaptation procedures later. Predictive evaluation is almost nonexistent in most…

A new collection of more than 130 English textbooks authorized for use in Israeli schools is discussed in terms of quantity, regulations for use, criteria and principles for authorization, and outlook for the year 2000. A list of approved textbooks for the 1992-93 school year in grades 6 through 12 is included. (LB)

A British publisher conducted a readability study of its English language content area texts being used in foreign countries to determine how the texts could be made more readable. A cloze procedure assessment of a secondary school Hong Kong social studies series indicated that the English texts were too difficult for 91% of the pupils tested.…