Target language

1. The language which is the focus of the lesson or a part of the lesson. It could be grammar, lexis, functions or pronunciation. 2. The language being studied (often called the L2). This is the language that the learner is attempting to learn.

 

Target language culture

The traditions and culture of the country whose language is being studied.

Task

An activity that learners complete. For example, problem-solving activities or informationgap activities are tasks. A task usually focuses on communication. Task may also be used as another word for activity. ~ is ‘any purposeful action considered by an individual as necessary in order to achieve a given result in the context of a problem to be solved, an obligation to fulfil or an objective to be achieved.’ (CEFR, p10) See Task-based Learning

(TBL).

 

Task-based

This refers to materials or courses which are designed around a series of authentic tasks which give learners experience of using the language in ways in which it is used in the 'real world' outside the classroom. They have no pre-determined language syllabus and the aim is for learners to learn from the tasks the language they need to participate successfully in them. Examples of such tasks would be working out the itinerary of a journey from a timetable, completing a passport application form, ordering a product from a catalogue and giving directions to the post office. See authentic tasks.

 

Task-based learning (TBL)

A way of teaching in which the teacher gives learners meaningful tasks to do. After this the teacher may ask learners to think about the language they used while doing the tasks, but the main focus for learners is on the task itself. Project work is often task-based.

 

Task type

A set of questions that are all of one kind, e.g. multiple choice, gap-fill, matching.