Scott Thornbury's very accessible 30 Teaching Methods, groups methods according to what they have in common, even if separated in time. At the same time, it rehabilitates some lost or forgotten methods, with a view to challenging current orthodoxies, especially with regard to such topics as translation, rote learning, authenticity, and communication. In doing this it aims to unpack, not just the history of methods, but the beliefs that underpin them and the benefits that still might possibly accrue from experimenting with them. Through its inclusion of interesting characters, intriguing anecdotes, and often bizarre techniques, the material is absorbing and engaging.
My name is Scott Thornbury. I'm a teacher and teacher educator, with over 30 years' experience in English language teaching, and an MA from the University of Reading. I am currently Associate Professor of English Language Studies at the New School in New York, where I teach on an on-line MA TESOL program. My previous experience includes teaching and teacher training in Egypt, UK, Spain (where I live), and in my native New Zealand. My writing credits include several award-winning books for teachers on language and methodology. I am series editor for the Cambridge Handbooks for Teachers (CUP). I was also the co-founder of the dogme ELT group.
Nice book if you’re reading about methodologies in language teaching for the first time. It is short, concise and pretty easy to read. It is interesting the way the author categorizes them instead of presenting a chronological account of ELT methods. If you’re experienced, this book might be too repetitive. Also it aims to inform rather than present a critical analysis of methods.
A great consultant book with a perfect organized overview of language teaching methods, from the beginnings to the most modern. All methods follow the same structure: background, how it works, if it works, and what's more, plus a specific reference for each. Highly recommended for second language teachers!