Need for focused tasks in TBLT

Task-based language teaching (TBLT) emphasises the primacy of meaning in communication. But communication is primarily lexical. We use words processed as lexis for communication. Therefore, TBLT may just automatize performance of particular tasks through use of communication strategies. Therefore, we need to explain how exchange of meaning becomes useful to development of language when communication of meaning itself is lexical.

This is why we need focused tasks in TBLT. Focused tasks help the learner to focus on language form while communicating meaning. For example, a task could still be communicative when the learner gives multiple instructions to different parties, using certain structures introduced through the task. Such focus on form helps the learner to stretch his/her interlanguage, leading to language development.

Skehan, P. (1996). A Framework for the Implementation of Task-based Instruction. Applied Linguistics, Oxford University Press.

Communicative Tasks for CBSE Class X Skills Assessment

Task 1: Pair discussion task designed to assess candidates’ speaking ability

Help Vijaya

Read the instructions carefully before you begin speaking. You can make notes and use them while discussing. You will get 3 minutes to discuss.

Your friend Preethi’s mother is a bank manager. Recently she is transferred from Delhi to your town. Preethi secured admission in your college, in your course. But she has no idea about the subjects of study and examination pattern in your college. Since classes have already started, and first term examination is approaching, she wants to know more about the subjects you study, their content in short, and the kind of questions that appear in the examination. Share these details with her to help her deal with this situation.

This is a personal information exchange task where test-takers share their own information.

Task 2: A task using ‘performing actions based on listening’

Building Origami Cat Face

Listen to the audio carefully and follow the instructions.

Transcript of audio:

Step 1: Take a square-shaped piece of paper.

Step 2: Fold the paper from corner to corner, diagonally- this is fold 1

Step 3: Fold the it again from corner to corner diagonally- this is fold 2. Press the folds firmly and open fold 2.

Step 4: Fold the top pointy end about ¼ of the way down- this is fold 3.

Step 5: Fold the other two corners upwards at about 5-degree angles- this is fold 4 (draw the angle on board)

Step 6: Turn the paper around and draw eyes, nose, mouth and moustaches. Your Origami cat face is now ready!

This is a very simple task to assess listening skills based on the action that follows.

Task 3: An example reading task to assess discourse structure is given below.

Assessing formal discourse structure [Adopted from (Krishnan, Testing Reading, 2012)]

Read the following paragraph. Then divide it into three paragraphs with the following headings: 1-New Immigration System, 2-Indians May Benefit, 3-Other Foreign-Policies.

U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed a merit-based immigration system. It could benefit highly-skilled Indian workers. But it prevents them from sponsoring their extended families. It is part of an aggressive plan which he said will serve national interest. However, there was no reference to the H-1B visas in the proposal which Mr. Trump sent to Congress on Sunday. It is the most sought after visa by Indian IT professionals. Therefore, it is assumed that Indians would benefit from the new policy. Trump administration has more in their wish list. One of them is overhauling the country’s green-card system. Another is the funding of a controversial border wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. A third is said to be a crackdown on unaccompanied minors entering the country.

Task 4: A writing task.

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You have received a new bicycle as a birthday gift. Therefore, you want to sell your old blue coloured bicycle which is in good condition. You recently got it serviced, and replaced both the tyres. Write an advertisement for your school notice board in about 40 words.