Go for gold: Integrating process and product in ESP

Abstract

This article examines an example of a task-based ESP syllabus. The course is based on the BBC ELT series "Bid for Power" and has been developed over a number of years with Upper Intermediate students at The University of Technology in Papua New Guinea. The course is described in some detail and discussed in terms of its syllabus design, looking at the selection and sequencing of content and learning tasks. The discussion seeks to illuminate and refine some unclear notions of process syllabuses by relating a specific example to theoretical concepts. It is argued that a syllabus may have a process focus without being totally learner-led. It is suggested that this has implications for ESP syllabus designers wishing to encourage students to take control of their learning. © 1992 The American University.