Good books for teaching EFL theory
 

Thoughts?

I really like Brown for assessments. What about methodology?

Re: Good books for teaching EFL theory
 

Aren't there famous authors like Scrivener and Hamer?
(Jeremy Harmer: The practice of English language teaching)

Re: Good books for teaching EFL theory
 

H. Douglas Brown is excellent. This is a must read.

I would also highly recommend Harmer and Nunan, as well as Scrivener for new teachers. Paul Nation is great for vocabulary. Thornbury has a methodology that advocates for more freedom in the classroom.

For linguistics, understanding language acquisition can be important. Take a look at Lightbound and Spada.

Any others?

Re: Good books for teaching EFL theory
 

Brown's book remains the gold standard, but it can be a bit dry.

The most practical - and engaging - book on theory that I've read comes from Cambridge University Press called Global Englishes. By examining how English expanded across the globe, investigating how English is used in different countries and contexts, and comparing the types of common "mistakes" while learning English, the author creates a fascinating picture of changing world. I learned some history, reviewed some linguistics, and developed a few new techniques. It also helped me better tailor my lessons to the individual needs of students based on their goals and aspirations.

Re: Good books for teaching EFL theory
 

Hi Eric, I bought this book a few years ago. What I got out of it was that no single theory was highly effective in all teaching/learning situations. That helped me a lot and pushed me even more to pay close attention to different learning styles and team-teaching opportunities and failures. I know the book is a bit old, but it is fresh and the transcripts are easy to relate to if you have some classroom time under your belt.
Thom Amazon.com: How Languages Are Learned (Oxford Handbooks for Language Teachers) (9780194370004): Patsy M. Lightbown, Nina Spada: Books

Re: Good books for teaching EFL theory
 

Thanks for the practical tip and Amazon link!

Old does not invalidate or out-date - in this situation.