Summary

Chapter 13 from the book Alternative approaches and methods, talks about what is competency-based language teaching and the aspects this approach involves.
The author makes a comparison of some approaches in education to conclude that competency based education is a movement which focuses on the outputs students produce during the development of a program. It emphasizes on students outcomes rather than on inputs given to them. Moreover, the author points out that, learners play a central role in the teaching-learning process. They are involved and actively participants of their own learning process; activities, language and materials are related to real life situations. Also, teachers have the opportunity of updating their training programs and education.
What is more, the author suggests that standards are important guidelines in education, in order to state what students can do with the language at a determine level.
Apart from that, if we implement the use of CBLT in our institutions, students may have the chance of learning communicative language, useful for interacting in social situations, that’s way they should be trained for using the language already learned.
Finally, in CBLT learners use the language for real purposes through the development of functional communication skills.

communicative test

communicative test

GIMNASIO CAMPESTRE
11th grade

Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: __________________

· Match each statement with a language function from the list below. Look at the example
CONTRASTING IDEAS
MAKING SUGGESTIONS
GIVING WARNINGS
DISAGREEING OR EXPRESSING ANOTHER OPINION
CONTRASTING IDEAS

STATEMENT
We’d love to stay for dinner, (FUNCTION=CONTRASTING IDEAS )
but we have got to get going.

Don’t get me wrong,
but I don’t think it was such a bad movie! (FUNCTION= )

I’m interested in finding out (FUNCTION= )
when the next fly leaves.

Don’t push so hard on that toy, (FUNCTION= )
or you might break it!

Why don’t we go to the movies tonight? (FUNCTION= )

Getting a good job is hard work; however, (FUNCTION= )
most people eventually find one with patience.

I wouldn’t do that, I would… (FUNCTION= )

Do you happen to know…? (FUNCTION= )

Watch out! Be careful! (FUNCTION= )

How about going to Hawaii for your vacation? (FUNCTION= )


· Read the following paragraph and answer the questions.


The Santa Maria Hotel has an unrivalled location in Madaleina. The views of the Old Town are breath-taking from every part of the hotel. Situated in La Bosca, the most exclusive quarter of the city, both the chic city center and the cedar-wood forest are on our doorstep. The hotel was created with the discerning traveler in mind – the building is a landmark in modern design and the interior features clean modern lines.
A personal pick-up service is offered from the airport (provided we receive 24 hours’ notice) or, alternatively, the brand-new subway will take you to within 5 minutes of our hotel. Car parking is available for a limited number of vehicles.
Amongst our most renowned facilities is the health spa. The concept focuses on well-being and repose.
The decoration is minimal creating a space of complete and wonderful calm, with relaxing treatments, steam and body therapies plus a gymnasium with the most up-to-date work-out machines. A personal trainer is at your service should you require one. Any one of our massage treatments will revitalize your body.




1. What is the main communicative purpose of this text?
(It is to inform and persuade)

2. Where would you probably find this extract and who is likely to read it?
(It could be from a leaflet, a brochure or a website. It might be read by a person searching for an exclusive hotel in Madaleina.)

3. State two reasons why someone might be attracted to this particular hotel.
(Excellent location, fantastic view,etc)

4. Suggest your own alternative word or phrase for the following, found in the text:
a) renowned - famous
b) on our doorstep - nearby