Grammar Instruction in Content-Based Classes at the Hawai‘i English Language Program

Abstract

The present curriculum-development project primarily focuses on needs analysis and evaluation of teaching conducted at the Hawai‘i English Language Program (HELP). Based on the lack of clear course objective or guideline for grammar instruction in HELP’s CB curriculum, it investigates (1) how instructors are teaching grammar in their CB classes, and (2) students’ perceived needs of grammar instruction. Online and offline survey was administered to both teachers and students. The analysis revealed that HELP’s CB curriculum is suitable to students’ needs of grammar instruction. Only two students out of 37 prefer a traditional grammar class, and others accept grammar instruction while developing the four language skills. The findings are expected to contribute to the growth of consensus among the instructors, administrators, and students on grammar instruction in content-based (CB) classes at the program.