Language learning can be seen as an ever-developing tapestry woven with many threads and colors. The elements of the tapestry are related to different language skills such as listening and speaking, reading, and writing; the characteristics of the teachers; the desires, needs, and backgrounds of the students; and the general second language development process. When all of these elements are working together harmoniously, the result is a colorful, continuously growing tapestry of language competence of which the student and teacher can be proud.
Tapestry is built upon a framework of concepts that help students become proficient in English and prepared for the academic and social challenges in college and beyond. The following principles underlie the instruction provided in all of the components of the Tapestry program:
- Empowering students to be responsible for their learning
- Using Language Learning Strategies and Academic Power Strategies to enhance one's learning, both in and out of the classroom
- Offering motivating activities that recognize a variety of learning styles
- Providing authentic and meaningful input to heighten learning and communication
- Learning to understand and value different cultures
- Integrating language skills to increase communicative competence
- Providing goals and ongoing self-assessment to monitor progress
Chapter 1 Small Talk-Not Deep, But Important
Chapter 2 High-Tech Communication-A Curse or a Blessing?
Chapter 3 Humor-Can Laughter Be the Best Medicine?
Chapter 4 Academic Dishonesty-How Common is Cheating?
Chapter 5 Exploring American Culture-McDonaldization of the World?
Chapter 6 Medical Ethics-Should Doctors Ever Lie?
Chapter 7 The Time Bind-Are Twenty-Four Hours a Day Enough?
Chapter 8 Marketing Techniques-Are We Really Influenced?
Chapter 9 Being an Immigrant-Culture Shock and Adaptation
Chapter 10 Changes on Earth-It's Not What It Used to Be