The “Grammar in Context, Seventh Edition” by National Geographic Learning, authored by Sandra N. Elbaum, is a comprehensive American English grammar textbook designed for various levels of learners, from elementary/high beginner to advanced. This edition continues the series’ tradition of contextualizing grammar instruction, making it more engaging and memorable for students.

Key Features:

Contextualized Approach: The textbook uses engaging readings that contextualize grammar, making the learning process more meaningful. It incorporates real-world content, including National Geographic photography and stories, to improve grammar awareness and retention.

Comprehensive Levels: It covers four levels, catering to a broad range of learners.

Engagement Tools: The book includes high-interest readings, questions, grammar usage notes, and games to engage students actively.

Online Resources: The Spark platform offers various interactive activities for digital homework or independent study, along with tools for teachers, including classroom presentation tools, an assessment suite, and an online practice platform.

Author Expertise: Sandra N. Elbaum, with extensive experience in ESL instruction, brings her expertise to the series. Her background includes teaching at different educational levels and in various countries.

New Edition Features: The seventh edition introduces updated readings, new critical thinking questions (‘Think About It’), practical usage notes (‘Grammar in Use’), fun activities (‘Fun with Grammar’), listening comprehension activities, and writing tips.

Buying Options/Components:

For Students: Options include the Student’s Book with the Spark platform, Instant Access to the Spark platform, and Split Editions (Level 1-3).

For Teachers: The Teacher’s Book and access to the Spark Platform, which includes a range of teaching and learning tools, are available.

Overall, “Grammar in Context, Seventh Edition” aims to provide a dynamic and interactive approach to learning grammar, utilizing modern content and tools to enhance the educational experience.

Who is suitable for ‘Grammar In Context Seventh Edition’?

“Grammar in Context, Seventh Edition” is suitable for a diverse range of learners due to its comprehensive and adaptable structure. Here are the key groups that would benefit from this textbook:

English Language Learners at Various Levels: The book is designed to cater to learners from elementary/high beginner levels all the way up to advanced levels. This wide range makes it suitable for students at different stages of English language proficiency.

ESL/EFL Students: Students learning English as a Second Language (ESL) or English as a Foreign Language (EFL) would find this textbook particularly beneficial due to its focus on contextualized grammar instruction.

Adult Learners: Given the author’s extensive experience in teaching adults, the book is likely well-suited for adult education settings, including community colleges and language institutes.

High School and College Students: The structured approach and comprehensive content make it appropriate for high school and college students who are improving their English grammar skills.

Self-Learners: Individuals studying English on their own can benefit from the book’s clear explanations, engaging content, and practical activities.

Teachers of English: ESL/EFL teachers will find this book a valuable resource for classroom instruction, supplemented by the Spark platform, which provides additional teaching and assessment tools.

International Learners: Learners from non-English speaking countries who are looking to improve their English grammar in a context-rich environment would find this edition useful.

The incorporation of National Geographic content makes the learning process more engaging and relevant, which can be particularly appealing for learners who are motivated by real-world applications of language skills. The online resources and interactive components also make it suitable for blended learning environments and for those who prefer a mix of traditional and digital learning methods.

The benefits of ‘Grammar In Context Seventh Edition’

“Grammar in Context, Seventh Edition” offers several benefits that make it a valuable resource for English language learners and educators. These benefits stem from its unique features and approach to teaching grammar. Here’s an overview of the key advantages:

Contextualized Learning: By presenting grammar rules within the context of engaging readings and real-world scenarios, the book makes it easier for students to understand and remember grammatical concepts. This approach also helps learners see the practical application of grammar in everyday language use.

Rich, Engaging Content: The incorporation of National Geographic photography and stories captivates students’ interest, making the learning process more enjoyable and relatable. This high-quality content stimulates learners’ curiosity about the world while simultaneously teaching them grammar.

Comprehensive Coverage: Catering to a range of levels from elementary to advanced, the book is versatile and can be used over the course of a learner’s English language development. It ensures continuity and progression in learning.

Enhanced Teaching and Learning Tools: The Spark platform offers a variety of interactive activities and resources, such as the Classroom Presentation Tool and Assessment Suite, which aid in both teaching and learning. These tools enable teachers to deliver more effective lessons and students to practice independently.

Critical Thinking and Personalization: Activities and questions in the book encourage students to think critically and personalize their learning experience. This helps in developing not just grammar skills but also broader cognitive and language abilities.

Practical Usage Notes and Tips: The ‘Grammar in Use’ notes and ‘Writing Tips’ provide practical advice on using grammar effectively in real-life communication, bridging the gap between theoretical understanding and practical application.

Diverse Learning Activities: The inclusion of varied activities like ‘Fun with Grammar’ and listening comprehension exercises caters to different learning styles and keeps the classroom dynamic.

Progress Tracking and Assessment: The online platform facilitates tracking of student and class performance, which is essential for monitoring progress and tailoring instruction to meet individual and group needs.

Professional Authorship: Authored by Sandra N. Elbaum, a seasoned ESL instructor, the book benefits from her vast teaching experience and insights into the learning needs of ESL students.

Global Perspective: The use of international content from National Geographic helps learners understand and appreciate diverse cultures and perspectives, which is increasingly important in today’s globalized world.

Overall, “Grammar in Context, Seventh Edition” is not just a grammar textbook; it’s a comprehensive tool that enhances language learning through engaging content, practical application, and diverse resources.

Effective teaching and learning strategies for ‘Grammar In Context Seventh Edition’

To maximize the effectiveness of “Grammar in Context, Seventh Edition” in teaching and learning English grammar, several strategies can be employed. These strategies leverage the strengths of the textbook and its resources to enhance the learning experience:

Contextualized Learning: Use the contextualized approach of the book to its fullest by encouraging students to relate grammar lessons to real-life situations. Discuss how the grammar rules apply in the readings and stories from National Geographic, and encourage students to find examples in their own experiences.

Integrative Skill Development: Combine grammar instruction with other language skills like reading, writing, listening, and speaking. For example, after a grammar lesson, have students practice the concepts through writing exercises or by engaging in discussions.

Active Engagement with Content: Engage students with the high-interest readings and National Geographic material. Encourage them to explore the topics further through research, presentations, or group discussions, thus deepening their understanding and interest.

Personalization and Critical Thinking: Utilize the ‘Think About It’ questions to personalize learning. Encourage students to share their opinions and experiences related to the topics discussed, fostering a more engaged and thoughtful learning environment.

Use of Online Resources: Make full use of the Spark platform for supplemental activities, assessments, and interactive learning. This can be particularly effective for homework assignments, independent study, and tracking student progress.

Collaborative Learning: Encourage group work and collaboration among students. This can involve peer reviews of writing tasks, group discussions on grammar topics, or collaborative projects using the content from the book.

Fun and Interactive Activities: Incorporate the ‘Fun with Grammar’ activities into lessons to add variety and maintain student interest. These activities can serve as a break from more traditional instruction and help reinforce concepts in an enjoyable way.

Listening and Speaking Practice: Utilize the listening comprehension activities in the book to enhance students’ listening skills. Pair these with speaking exercises where students practice using the grammar concepts in conversation.

Writing Integration: Use the ‘Writing Tips’ and editing practice tasks to connect grammar lessons directly to writing skills. Assign writing tasks that require the application of specific grammar rules covered in the lessons.

Continuous Assessment and Feedback: Regularly assess student understanding using the tools available in the textbook and the online platform. Provide timely and constructive feedback to guide students in their learning journey.

Customized Instruction: Adapt the pace and focus of lessons based on the specific needs and levels of your students. Use the range of materials and levels in the book to tailor instruction to different proficiency levels.

Reflective Learning: Encourage students to reflect on their learning process and progress. This can involve maintaining a grammar journal, self-assessments, or group discussions about what strategies are working and what areas need more focus.

By employing these strategies, educators can create a dynamic and effective learning environment that not only teaches grammar but also fosters broader language skills and critical thinking.