A reflective guide for English language educators who seek to match their course materials with their students’ needs, teaching goals, and school identity.
Each time I open a new coursebook, I’m amazed by the work that has gone into it—how much effort the editorial teams have invested, and how well the latest educational theories have been woven into the content. This one has stunning visuals. That one features thought-provoking topics. Another boasts solid pedagogical features, while yet another offers exceptional CLIL lessons. The blue cover promises cutting-edge digital tools. The red one uses a familiar, comforting layout. The green is student-friendly. The yellow? It comes with the most practical teacher’s guide.
But then I pause and remember: I already have my notes, my trusted drills, my PDFs queued for printing, and even lesson plans from years past ready to be reused. So, why change?
Because everything else changes. Students change. Groups change. Interests change. Technology changes. And yes—teachers change too.
That’s why we need guiding principles—focal points to help us make informed, purposeful decisions.
Know Thy Students
The students in front of you are unique. Even if you’ve taught them for years, you meet a different version of them each September. You need to consider:
- Are they fast learners or do they struggle?
- Can they keep up with the group?
- Will you need to differentiate the material or does the book already support diverse learning profiles?
- What are their interests, likes, preferences, and personalities?
Every piece of information helps build a meaningful student profile.
Beware of biases. Don’t rely solely on past grades or previous assessments. Choose a book that allows every student in your class to thrive—because you are that teacher.
Know Thy Needs
Ask yourself:
- How often will you need to review?
- What materials help you best with reviews and evaluations?
- What will you test? How often?
- How much homework is realistic?
- Are the instructions straightforward, or will students need extra support before they can work independently?
Beware of your own expertise. Just because a text seems easy to you doesn’t mean it will be easy for your students.
Know Thy Goals
English isn’t just another school subject. It’s a vital communication skill. It’s a gateway to academic and professional opportunities—and often, a powerful confidence booster for students who struggle elsewhere.
Teenagers frequently use English words and phrases in daily conversation, but can they apply the correct grammar and structure?
The English classroom can be a hub for 21st-century skills. It’s where students are introduced to their future, upgraded selves.
What’s your defining goal this year?
Beware: Not all goals are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). Some remain subtle but shape every lesson you teach.
Know Thy Institute
It’s easy to choose based on surface-level features, especially when so many quality books are available. But understanding your institution’s ethos can make a world of difference.
Ask yourself:
- What values and principles define our school?
- Is it modern? Tech-savvy? Traditional? Innovative?
- Are we cosmopolitan, academic, or results-driven?
Create a brand identity for your school. Once that’s clear, your coursebook decisions will be too.
Beware of assumptions. Don’t assume everyone shares your teaching philosophy. Engage in dialogue with colleagues to understand their perspectives.
Know Thyself
What kind of teacher are you?
- What do you love teaching?
- What bores or frustrates you?
- Which tasks feel natural and which feel draining?
A coursebook is a tool—it can make your work easier, but it doesn’t define your teaching. Reflect on your strengths and limitations.
If you’re a Director of Studies making decisions for your team, involve them. Ask what matters most to them and what their students need.
Beware of outside pressure. Many will want a say, but ultimately, you’re the one responsible for making the material work in the classroom. The decision—and the responsibility—is yours.
Final Thought
Sometimes we don’t make the right choice. But we can always make the choice right.
