SLS Faculty Graham Crookes, along with colleagues Alessia Cogo and Sávio Siqueira, recently published a new book English for a Critical Mind: Language pedagogy for social justice.
The book also has digital content available on allango.
Abstract:
English for a Critical Mind takes us on a fascinating journey from Critical Pedagogy to Critical Language Pedagogy (CLP), within the perspective of English as a Lingua Franca (ELF). It suggests an alternative to mainstream approaches and is written by three experts who share their very different experiences – working together and with other teachers – to create a book which reflects their contexts and contacts, research and reflections, views and values.
Part A provides a down-to-earth introduction to CLP, followed by specific suggestions that address the key features of language teaching:
– The need for preliminary work by the teacher, including activities for setting up an appropriate classroom environment for a CLP context.
– The role of language, and the diversity of English, in relation to the students’ contexts and needs – integrating CLP with ELF as a critical intercultural pedagogy of English.
Part B offers a series of handouts and sample units illustrating CLP in action:
– They are backed up by a wealth of downloadable materials for the students.
– They are challenging – but show how meeting the challenge is a journey that is well worth the effort.
Part C insists on the importance of reflection, and considers two further aspects of practice:
– Action is the long-term goal of CLP. Its concepts require planning schedules and outlines, so that teachers can consider what can (and cannot) be done in their specific situations.
– Building a teacher network is very important in acquiring a critical mindset – for both professional development and personal growth.
Congratulations, Graham!