Abstract:

This paper aims to present the task- based approach as a practical way for designing "humanized" textbooks for Iranian EAP (English for Academic purposes) student. Most of the EAP designed textbooks in Iran, particularly by SAMT, enjoy the linguistic and analytical aspects of language, but fail to tap students' multidimensional processing potential. They fail to relate learners' real-life experiences and speciality to the process of language learning. This problem multiplies when students are faced with non-EAP teachers, whose sole aim is to translate the textbook. Tomlinson (2003), who is in favor of developing ELT (English language Teaching) humanized textbook, offers a solution which is accessible in two ways: Humanizing without textbook and humanizing with the textbook. Considering universities' central policies, curricula and their introduced syllabi on the one hand, and non-EAP and hard-pressed teachers on the other, designing appropriate textbooks for Iranian EAP students is necessary. To this end, this study aims to employ Nunan's (1988, 1999) task- based approach to language as a supplement for Tomlinson's (1998, 2003) notion of humanized materials developments. Using Barnard and Zemach's (2003) tacit notion of humanized ESP materials developments, the study will further focus on the feasibility and crucial steps in designing task-based humanized EAP textbooks.

Keywords:

EAP textbooks, humanized textbooks, Nunan's task-based approach, Tomlinson's humanistic approach.