Korea, Korea!

Abstract

In the era of globalization, many Koreans now have many opportunities to visit or live abroad. Due to this, many people are sending their children to experience other cultures, especially those of English speaking countries, for several years to improve their children’s English language skills. When these children come back to Korea, many of them become better English speakers. They need, however, to receive help with adjusting to the Korean schooling system as well as an opportunity to continue learning English. In order to help this particular group of students (also called “returnees”), a special type of language program is needed. Since their English ability will be higher compared to those who have not spent an extended period of time in English speaking countries, it is important to maintain the target students’ interest in studying English. Also, they should learn specific learning strategies to develop autonomy to become a better English learner. Lastly, students need to be more challenged. To address such needs, this textbook is designed to provide interesting topics for the target students who will also have an opportunity to learn about Korean culture and history. Specifically, this textbook provides essential information on Korea and promotes cross-cultural exchanges by introducing typical places, people, and customs of Korea. It offers various activities to help enrich students, four language skills. The target students are fifth and sixth graders who have recently returned from an extended stay abroad (approximately 3-4 years). Therefore, their proficiency level is Level 4 in Listening and Reading, and Level 3-4 in Speaking and Writing, according to WIDA’s ELD Standards (2012 Edition). They are able to understand some specific content area language with complex grammatical structures, while they need more practice to achieve a higher level in speaking and writing. In order to develop these skills, many opportunities are given throughout the lessons. Moreover, to help the students better understand their identity as Koreans and with adjusting to the Korean schooling system, the textbook themes are Korean History, Geography, Economics, Sociology and Culture of Korea, while communicative activities are provided to improve their proficiency level.