10 syllabuses

Richards, J. (2001). Course planning and syllabus design. In Curriculum development in
language teaching (pp. 145-197). NY: Cambridge University Press. 145-197.

Syllabuses:

1. Grammatical (or structural) syllabus: This syllabus design focuses on the grammar of the target language. It is a necessary element of any language program, although it is disconnected from real world language use when used alone. I see that I incorporate this in the context of our writing lessons along with the skills and lexical syllabi also.
2. Lexical syllabus: The focus is on word lists that are required for reading success. It helps prepare students for reading fluency. It shouldn’t be used alone because it is disconnected from real-life language use. We have a sight words standard that I use within the context of the students’ reading and writing activities, as well as for drill and practice and in a game format. I also use this syllabus in conjunction with the skills syllabus for handwriting practice.
3. Functional syllabus: organized around communicative functions and competencies needed for communicative ability. The Threshold Level is an example of this syllabus. It does not focus on the linguistic aspects of language or the process of communication though. This happens in our class on a situational basis when students are taught how to say, “Please may I use the bathroom?” I found that even this request can be difficult for students to say correctly, for instance one of my students all year long could only say, “Please can I may use the bathroom?” 4. Situational syllabus: Lessons are based on the situation and is used to present language in context. It is practical and allows the students use the language immediately. I incorporate this format into our harvesting theme at the beginning of the school year along with other syllabi to fill the gaps that are inevitable when used alone.
5. Topical or content-based syllabus: This format begins its focus on the content of the thematic unit. It provides for comprehension, real-life language use and form, and incorporates the four skills needed in language learning to name a few of its benefits. The draw back is that the thematic unit can become so big that sequencing it can become confusing- which is always my problem.
6. Competency-based syllabus: The focus of this syllabus is based on competencies learners need to successfully perform certain tasks and activities. This format helps the learner to use language for survival and/or work-oriented communication. The competencies are developed based on economic and social values. I incorporate this in our Personal Social Skills strand, where students are expected to use their manners and words to express themselves.
7. Skills syllabus: The language teaching focuses on the reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities learners need for the skills required in language use. The skills learned are transferable to other contexts. It is disconnected from real-life language use when used alone. I find that I use this format for almost every subject with my kindergartners along with the situational syllabus.
8. Task-based syllabus: This syllabus is organized around the tasks for real-life language use. Two types of tasks are pedagogical and real-world. These tasks are meaningful because comprehensible input and modified output are produced. Unfortunately, this syllabus is not widely used because of unclear directions on how to design and select tasks. I see that I use this syllabus along with the situational or topic/content syllabus as needed (which is most likely not enough).
9. Text-based syllabus: This syllabus is integrated and is built around printed and nonprinted text, and is a type of situational approach. Because we have adopted printed text, I am using their (publishers) syllabus, which in turn has been a guide for me as a new teacher.
10. An integrated syllabus: This syllabus incorporates more than one format, which represents real-life. I’m sure most teachers are eclectic once they’ve become seasoned teachers, and this syllabus is what would be used. Still, I’m not a seasoned teacher and I’ve found that I use this format too. Thank goodness or else I’d feel like a robot.