Textbook is the tool of a corresponding course, which offers a variety of learning activities that focus on the learning outcomes. According to Schiffler, a textbook provides a grammar progression undoubtedly with the necessary instruction (1998: 12). But Klippel (1987: 12) finds that a textbook is not the most suitable medium for training of communicative language behaviour. Within the constraints of the curriculum, often represented by the dominance of the textbook, learners find no space to speak as themselves, to use language in communicative interaction, to write, to simulate responses from fellow learners, to find solutions to relevant problems (1993: 310). According to Legutke and Klippel, there are some controversial discussions about whether it makes sense to use the textbook successfully in the curriculum.

As part of the doctoral research, this study investigated whether the prescribed textbook Themen aktuell is a good recommendation for the preparation of the A/L German final examination. A google form questionnaire was distributed to the candidates who sat for the A/L German exam in February 2022 and 63.2% of the respondents (n=41) mentioned that the textbook Themen aktuell is not sufficient for the final exam. Using Funk's (2004) catalogue of criteria, an empirical study was conducted to determine whether the prescribed textbook was inadequate for the A/L examination. The study concluded that the textbook and workbook contained sufficient speaking and listening activities, but not enough grammar, literature and writing exercises to adequately prepare students for the A/L German exam.

Authors:
Yoganjana Sushanthi Menike, University of Potsdam, Germany
Winnie-Karen Giera, Univetrsity of Potsdam, Germany

About the Presenter(s)
Ms Menike is a Senior Lecturer in German Language at the University of Sabaragamwua, Sri Lanka and is currently a Ph.D. student at the University of Potsdam, Germany. Her research focuses on developing teaching and learning of foreign languages.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/yoganjana-s-menike-412414251/

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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