Innovation in Language Learning

The target goal of the current paper is to thoroughly elaborate and introduce the main criteria of constructing task-based reading activities for ESP learners with the specialization of architecture and construction. There are several reasons why ESP students may benefit from a task-supported or a task-based syllabus. The majority of second language acquisition researchers agree that instruction is more effective when it is primarily meaning-based. But at the same time, it's also supplemented by timely focus on language features such as grammar, lexis, pronunciation, and pragmatics. Tasks have the potential to generate many opportunities for meaningful language use. By definition, tasks are meaning based. Tasks, however, also provide a platform for language focused instruction. Proponents of task based approaches do subscribe to both the ideas of learner-centered education and learning by doing. Learning the language via task-based practice clearly involves learning by doing as students are engaged in activities that resemble what they do in real life using the language. Last but not least, tasks, if they are carefully selected, can also provide students with practice that's relevant to their academic, occupational, vocational, or social survival purposes. In the ESP context Task-based approaches stimulate not only language competence in all four skills but they also help to develop the skills necessary for success in working life, such as: group-work skills, problem solving skills, presentation skills, discussion skills, negotiation skills, making compromises, intercultural competence in an international setting, study skills, learner motivation. Thus, in the current paper a comprehensive light will be cast upon the four main criteria (“focus on meaning”, “communicative problem solving”, “relationship with the real world”, “non-linguistic outcome”) which should undoubtedly be taken into consideration in the process of constructing a task-based reading activity for the ESP context.

Keywords: English for Specific Purposes, Task-Based Language Teaching, reading skills development;