Using Textbooks in Writing Classes

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What does the text suggest is a productive process in course design and materials development?

Deleting everything that is repetitive

Modifying activities to increase difficulty

Adding extra tasks only

Reflecting on gaps between student needs and textbook offerings (correct)

Which of the following is NOT one of the five ways of adapting materials mentioned in the text?

Transforming (correct)

Deleting

Simplifying

Adding

What does 'simplifying' involve according to the text?

Reordering the sequence of activities

Adding more complexity

Deleting irrelevant content

Rewriting to reduce difficulty (correct)

Why is modifying textbooks considered an important skill for writing teachers according to the text?

To make resources available to students more useful Signup and view all the answers

In what way does teaching relate to transforming content knowledge according to the text?

By making content knowledge pedagogically effective Signup and view all the answers

What is an important outcome of modifying and creating materials according to the text?

Improving professional development for teachers Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the advantages of using commercial textbooks as a source of materials for writing classes?

They provide ideas for course structure and practice activities. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to treat textbooks with caution in teaching writing?

Writing teaching is complex and varies locally. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of local teaching contexts are textbook writers unaware of?

Student difficulties and target needs Signup and view all the answers

Why might novice teachers find support in using commercial textbooks for writing classes?

To ensure coverage of important aspects in a logical sequence Signup and view all the answers

What does the text suggest as a limitation of commercial textbooks for teaching writing?

They lack customization for local needs and contexts. Signup and view all the answers

Why do commercial textbooks sometimes fall short in meeting local teaching requirements?

Authors are constrained by publishers and a broad market. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following issues are commonly found in writing textbooks?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential issue with publishers targeting a mass audience for writing textbooks?

It can undermine the value of even the best textbooks. Signup and view all the answers

What should teachers do if they are compelled to use a textbook that does not meet all their instructional needs?

Be creative with what is available and supplement the textbook as needed. Signup and view all the answers

Based on the text, what is a potential issue with writing textbooks failing to reflect current writing and genre research?

They may not adequately address the ways writers actually use language in real situations. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a common issue with writing textbooks?

Overemphasis on academic writing genres. Signup and view all the answers

What should teachers be clear about when choosing or being compelled to use a writing textbook?

What they want the textbook to achieve and their realistic expectations for it. Signup and view all the answers