Teaching and Assessment of the Macro skills

Introduction and Macro Skills Overview00:00:00

The session begins by framing the importance of macro skills in English language teaching, specifically noting that these topics comprise a significant portion of the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET). The instructor emphasizes the importance of utilizing the Table of Specifications (TOS) for a systematic and effective review.

Fine Language Components00:06:00

An in-depth look at language components including phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. The discussion covers how these detailed aspects contribute to effective communication and provides mnemonics or keywords to help with exam retention.

Language Acquisition Theories00:49:30

A detailed breakdown of key language theories including Behaviorist theory (Skinner/Pavlov), Universal Grammar (Chomsky), Monitor Model (Krashen), Cognitive theory (Piaget), Conversation theory (Pask), and Acculturation theory (Schumann). Practical scenarios are used to test knowledge application.

Listening Comprehension Skills01:13:45

This section covers the four kinds of listening (appreciative, comprehensive, critical, empathic) according to Wolvin and Coakley. It also defines listening for details versus selective listening and highlights why listening is often considered the most neglected macro skill.

Reading Techniques and Strategies01:36:50

Exploration of reading strategies like DRTA (Directed Reading Thinking Activity) and SQ3R, along with the differences between skimming, scanning, and survey reading. The instructor differentiates between literal, inferential, and critical reading types.

Writing and Spoken Language Characteristics02:08:45

Discussion on the characteristics of a good writing program and the features of spoken language, such as performance variables (fillers), redundancy, clustering, and reduced forms.

Speaking Assessment and Viewing Skills02:25:40

The session concludes with an analysis of speaking assessment types—imitative, intensive, responsive, and interactive—and touches upon viewing and representing as a newly highlighted macro skill in 21st-century education.