CHECKLISTS No textbook or set of materials is likely to be perfect and even though it is clear that coursebook assessment is fundamentally a subjective,

rule-of-thumb activity, and that no neat formula, grid or system will ever provide a definite yardstick (Sheldon, 1988: 2.45). Although it is unlikely that anything would be really suitable, it would be useful to have the following: 1. Pre-Use checklist 2. In-use checklist 3. Post-Use checklist

A. Pre-Use checklist, looking at a resource before you purchase / use it. physical attributes (external / internal) - Presentation clear, not cluttered attractiveness (to students / teachers), pictures and illustrations, cultural appropriateness, physical attributes (external / internal) suitability language content o in line with appropriate syllabus o suitable for this culture o spiraling progression - texts o authentic o informative o appropriately illustrated o good quality audio available B. In-use checklist: What things might you notice while you are using a textbook that you didnt notice before/ For example the childrens response to it. Pedagogical Parameters Activities o versatile for group size o versatile for ability levels o opportunities to practice o opportunities for personalization o interesting, engaging o suitable for different learning styles o practical o communicative C. Post-Use checklist: What things could you only look for after using a textbook for a while? - For example the children do/dont seem to be learning (because ...?) Evaluation of learning

General factors 1. The usability factor How far the materials could be integrated into a particular syllabus as a score or supplementary. 2. The generalisability factor Perhaps not all the material will be useful for a given individual or group but some parts might be. 3. The adaptability factor Can parts be added/modified/used in another context/modified for local circumstances? 4. The flexibility factor How rigid is the sequencing and grading? Can the materials be entered at different points or used in different ways?