Name of Trainer/Assessor: Alexandra Power

Question 3: Task
Minimum word length: 1000

3 Examine the way the present perfect tense is presented in as many coursebooks and syllabuses as you can:

whether the item occurs - selection
where the item occurs - grading; at what level; after or before which other items, e.g. is it introduced before or after past simple and past continuous tenses; how long before related items such as past perfect appear; is it introduced on its own or in conjunction with yet, just, already, ever, for or since; when is the tense presented in conjunction with these items; what vocabulary is introduced; does it accompany a particular function?

Finally, look at the different ways of presenting the item - by dialogue, text, getting students to perform actions, teacher demonstration and so on.

The present perfect tense is a crucial aspect of English grammar, and its proper usage is required for students to communicate effectively in both spoken and written communication. As such, it is no surprise that the present perfect tense is included in many coursebooks, syllabuses, and curriculums across different levels of English language learning.
When examining how the present perfect tense is presented in various coursebooks and syllabuses, one can identify several elements related to selection and grading, such as the following:
Selection:
- Some coursebooks introduce the present perfect tense after the simple present tense and before the past simple tense, while others introduce it after the past simple tense and before the present continuous tense.
- Some syllabuses may introduce the present perfect tense in conjunction with specific words, such as «just,» «already,» «yet,» «for,» «since,» or «ever.»
- Some coursebooks may introduce the present perfect tense as a standalone lesson, while others may present it in combination with related topics like the past perfect tense or time expressions.
- Depending on the level of the coursebook, the present perfect tense may be presented more briefly or in greater detail, with more or fewer examples.

Grading:
- The present perfect tense may be introduced at different levels of English language learning, from beginner to advanced levels.

- Some coursebooks may begin with simpler examples that involve basic verb constructions, while others may present more complex sentences or usage cases.
- Depending on the coursebook, various functions associated with the present perfect tense, such as talking about experiences, changes, or unfinished actions, may be presented alongside relevant vocabulary.
In addition to selection and grading, the present perfect tense may also be presented in different ways, such as:
Through dialogues or role-playing activities where students can practice using the present perfect tense in context
- Through written or audio texts, where students can identify examples of the present perfect tense
- Through teacher-led explanations or demonstrations of the tense and its usage in different scenarios
- Through action-based activities or games, such as charades or board games, where students can use the present perfect tense in a dynamic and engaging way.
Overall, the presentation of the present perfect tense in coursebooks and syllabuses can vary widely, but most materials share common themes in terms of selection, grading, and instructional strategies. By understanding how the present perfect tense is presented in various materials, English language instructors can better tailor their lessons to meet the needs and abilities of their students.