Information collection & exchange

 
 
 
 
SUGGEST A SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM 
A man needs to cross a winding river. He finds two planks of about the same length, but neither of 
em is long enough to stretch across the river. 
th
Suggest a solution to the problem. Express the solution in one of these ways: 
a.
in words only 
b.
in the form of a drawing 
c.
in the form of a step-by-step chart 
 
 
Figure 2.2 From Skills for Learning: Development by a team of writers at the University of Malaya. 
University of Malaya Press, 1980. Reprinted by permission. 
Exercises using authentic materials are a hallmark of the Communicative Approach. Authentic materials, 
such as newspapers or recordings from the radio, are selected so that learners can practice language in real 
situations where possible. Here are some announcements taken from the classified section of an American 
newspaper. 
Garage Sales
Great for students. 6838 Floyd Ave. 
Sat. 9-2, rain/shine. Collectibles/
sofa/mower/bikes/household items.

---

Firewood, Coal & Fuel
Seasoned hardwood 1 year old.
16-20" length. Delivered and
dumped in driveway. 1 cord $125;
2 cords $225; 3 cords $325.
777-9576. 
1 mo to 10 yrs.
nacks, lunch incl. Academically
These ads can be used as a basis for communicative activities at all levels. For example, at the beginners' 
vel a question and answer exercise could be on numbers. What time is the garage sale? How much does 
r level, the 
tudents could guess the meanings of words from the context ("shine," 'dumped," "driveway," "cord," 
nacks"). Or the advertisements could be used as a springboard for discussion on topics such as child care, 
atural resources, and student accommodation.