Supplementary materials may come from authentic sources, for example, newspaper and magazine articles, video, etc. Some course book packages include supplementary materials and activities, especially designed to fit activities, syllabus, and there are also many websites where you can download supplementary materials.
Reasons for using supplementary materials To replace unsuitable material in the course book To fill gaps in the course book To provide suitable material for learners’ particular needs and interests To give learners extra language or skill language practice To add variety to our teaching
The most common situations where supplementary materials are useful When the textbook provides insufficient or ineffective examples provides too few examples is too simple or complex for your students fails to cover an item of language at all can't be conveniently or logically suited to a complete class due to time constraints
Supplementary materials and activities can provide variety in lessons and useful extra practice, but it is important to make sure that they fit into the learners’ program, are suitable for the class and match the aims of a particular lesson. Supplementary materials and activities will not totally replace course books.
Websites Advantages New ideas for lessons for teachers Variety of lesson plans, teaching plans, teaching materials, other materials, resources Disadvantages May not suit lesson aims, learners’ aims, learners’ levels, needs interests, etc. Sometimes difficult to find the right materials for the learners
Key concepts 4 The activities in materials designed to develop individual skills often include the use of other skills, e.g., learners need to read a text before they carry out a listening task, Some writing as a follow-up activity after a speaking activity. When selecting materials and activities, think carefully about all the skills that are required to the course book.
Key concepts 5 Many publishers produce practicing for separate language skills at different levels. Teacher’s resource books usually list tasks and activities according to level. you should check how appropriate the level for your learners. Think about the language they will need to understand