A Critical Analysis of the English Textbook of Class Eight in Bangladesh

Authors

  • Shakila Akter Barsha
  • Tasnuva Nur Efa
  • Md Ariful Hasan Hasan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51474/elepraxis.v1i1.552

Keywords:

English for today, Bangladeshi education system, language, learning strategies, collaborative learning, textbook evaluation

Abstract

This critical analysis evaluates the English for Today (Class Eight) textbook used in Bangladesh, focusing on its effectiveness in enhancing language skills for eighth-grade students. The textbook, designed to improve reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities, combines language study with practical use. While it emphasises collaborative learning and integrates historical insights, offering a comprehensive approach, the analysis identifies areas for improvement. The text praises the book's innovative tasks, such as dialogues and recipes, promoting conversational skills and real-life applications. However, it highlights the need for more advanced vocabulary and challenging exercises to enhance analytical and critical thinking skills. The review recommends enriching vocabulary, diversifying exercises, and upgrading content with the exam patterns to better prepare students for higher grades. The analysis anticipates the challenges of the upcoming textbook revision, emphasising the importance of addressing current shortcomings to enhance English language education in Bangladesh and aligning it with international standards. The study concludes by recognising students' eagerness to learn English, underscoring the vital role of curriculum improvements in preparing them for a globally competitive future

Author Biographies

Shakila Akter Barsha

Shakila Akter Barsha is a devoted and diligent student who has nearly completed a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature at the University of Creative Technology Chittagong in Bangladesh. She has previously completed a few ESOL courses via MOOC platforms such as Coursera and the AE-Teacher Scholarship. In addition, she is a trainee teacher at the skillUP Centre and works as a volunteer at the JAAMIR foundation. Authors such as Shakespeare, Austen, and Joyce have instilled in her a passion for the English language. Her appreciation for the English language, British literature, and poetry has grown since then. This year, her experience as a student in online language courses has taught her a great deal about the various learning styles of individual learners.

Tasnuva Nur Efa

Tasnuva Nur Efa is a passionate learner completing her Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature at the University of Creative Technology, Chittagong. She taught English at an education centre in Chittagong for three years. She also completed ESOL courses via the MOOC platform. During her four-year education, a Bachelor of Arts, she gained experience in presenting and sharing thoughts, working in a group, and showing leadership qualities. Courses like Syllabus Design, Methods and Materials have developed her skills as a teacher, and various literature courses have increased her curiosity to learn more about diverse approaches to English language teaching. 

Md Ariful Hasan Hasan

Md Ariful Hasan is a Bangladeshi ELT student and practitioner. He is about to earn his master's degree in English Language Teaching from the School of Education at Kathmandu University. Before that, he earned his MA and BA in English from Jagannath University, Bangladesh. He instructs bachelor-level students of the English Department at the University of Creative Technology, Chittagong. Mr. Hasan also teaches Bengali students spoken English and holds a CELTA certification. He has been working in the ELT industry in Bangladesh for the past decade. He enjoys contributing as a blogger and writer to various media. He is the founder of the skillUP Centre and JAAMIR Foundation.

 

Published

2024-11-22

How to Cite

Barsha, S. A. ., Efa , T. N., & Hasan , M. A. H. . (2024). A Critical Analysis of the English Textbook of Class Eight in Bangladesh. ELE Praxis, 1(1), 46-51. https://doi.org/10.51474/elepraxis.v1i1.552

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 1 (2024): Journal of English Language Education Praxis (JELE-Praxis)

Section

Original Articles