PRACTICE II – 2012 Book marking – Review

“500 Activities for the Primary Classroom”

Among others, “500 Activities for the Primary Classroom” is part of the series of Macmillan Books for Teachers, directed to newer and experienced teachers, combining classic teaching methods with recent theories. These 320 pages were written by Carol Read, an educational consultant, teacher trainer and writer based in Madrid, with a vast experience in the educational campus. It was first published in 2007, being reprinted by permission of the publisher until 2011.

This teachers’ guide presents a general introduction, giving advices about how to use the book in a number of ways and how to set up and use activities in class. Moreover, it presents a range of theoretical aspect about teaching English to young learners and managing the classroom, so as to create a motivating and organized environment, which is essential for a successful learning. In this passage, the author also invites the teachers to reflect upon the results achieved with the activities used in class.

The main body of the book is organized into sections according to the nature of the activities presented. Those ten sections are labeled following the macroskills (Listening and Speaking, Reading and Writing) and other useful and modern techniques like drama, songs, art and crafts, CBL exercises, and the use of ICT. Each activity states a set of aims, not only language-oriented, but also educational ones such as cognitive, content, social and attitudinal. Besides, the tasks specify many characteristics of the learners’ situation – age and level – and of the task itself – materials and procedures.

As a conclusion, this book gives the teacher, experienced or not, more than five hundred wonderful and varied activities to use in different classes, and helps him/her to create optimal learning conditions for children and suitable ways to manage young learners positively. Furthermore, it encourages educators to take into account the differing realities and learning styles of their students. “500 Activities for the Primary Classroom” is strongly recommended for primary teaching in the public and private spheres, providing the teachers with a wide range of flexible resources for children as well as adults, keeping them engaged and motivated during class time.

Cuello Torres, MailénFlecha, Adriana

Martin, Melisa