Cultures and Celebrations

Author: Banks
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-07-01
Features: Want to improve your English writing skills while reading happily? You'll find that this series, "National Geographic English Reading and Writing Training Series," is an excellent choice. The series consists of 14 volumes, covering 14 themes. Each theme includes 4 related subtopics that revolve around key concepts, arranged progressively in terms of reading and writing difficulty. With its innovative format of "Key Concepts + Progressive Reading + Task-Based Writing," the series helps students develop language sense and thinking patterns from the beginning, naturally acquiring the rules and characteristics of English writing through reading, and fundamentally improving their comprehensive language application skills. Additionally, the series closely aligns with the practical needs of high school English teaching, offering unparalleled advantages in targeted applicability:
First, it provides annotations for new words. Annotations not only create space for readers to guess the meaning of unfamiliar words but also offer convenient quick references, preventing them from disrupting the reading experience. Considering the importance of phonetic symbols in memorizing words and in developing students' reading and speaking skills, we have added International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) annotations to all annotated words.
Second, based on the requirements of high school English learning and college entrance exam writing, the annotated words are classified into three levels. Memory words are basic vocabulary, also commonly used in high-scoring essays. Learners should aim to write, read, listen, and use them effectively. Advanced reading words are essential English vocabulary for high school students to improve their language proficiency. It is recommended that learners frequently use these words, as familiarity with them will enhance their essay expression. Reference reading words include specialized and uncommon vocabulary related to the topics. Learners can familiarize themselves with them as needed. In the layout, memory words are bolded in the text. To facilitate memorization, memory words in the "Reading" section are placed at the beginning of each subtopic page, while those in the "Task-Based Writing" section are compiled together at the end of the book. Advanced reading words and reference reading words are indicated in green and blue fonts, respectively, with annotations presented on the same page for easy reference.
Third, it systematically introduces various types of English practical writing through diverse themes and genres. Writing starts with reading—first understanding what excellent articles look like. Based on this foundation, the series introduces the formats and applicable ranges of different model texts, including narrative and expository essays, among other 13 common writing styles. At the same time, with a rigorous approach and clear operational steps, the series guides students into a writing training camp that offers both step-by-step progressive guidance and ample creative space.
Fourth, it offers comprehensive teaching functions. Due to its unique design and careful layout in guiding practical writing, this series is not only suitable for self-study but also ideal for classroom writing instruction. The writing training examples in the series are invaluable references for English teachers in writing instruction, as supplementary materials for English writing courses.
Try it! You'll discover that English reading can be this easy and enjoyable, and English writing doesn't always have to be synonymous with "headaches" and "pain."