This unit is the fifth unit in the first volume of Grade 8 Go for it. This unit mainly talks about “Preferences and Make Plans”. Through this topic, students can talk about TV shows and movies, so that it’s easy to get the communicative function. This unit contains two parts: Section A and Section B. In Section A, most activities involve listening and speaking. In this part, students can learn about the types of programs, movies and how to express their opinions. Besides, students are supposed to learn lots of new words and phrases of preferences, such as, “talk show, sitcom, don’t mind….”. Section B focuses on reading and writing. This part is about a passage of Mickey Mouse. It’s so attractive for students that they are very interested in this passage. On the base of Section A and this passage, students can express their points of view more clearly and thoughtfully. So when they need to write, there are lots of materials available to them. This writing task is “write about your movie review”. It is very attractive for students because students in this grade always have lots of hobbies. Hobbies are a topic that students are interested in. Students can feel enthusiastic to talk about their preferences, stimulate their imaginations, expand their thinking, stimulate their desire to speak English and fully mobilize their enthusiasm for learning. What’s more, this unit is an extension of “Unit 4 What’s the best movie theater” and “Unit 3 I’m more outgoing than my sister.” Therefore, the above contents can not only help students to understand better, but also ensure the cohesion of knowledge.
二、学习者特征分析
Students in Grade 8 are in the midst of profound changes, both mentally and physically. Students’ interest in learning fluctuates from high to low, but they can still maintain their interest and enthusiasm in English subject due to different topics and great differences between Chinese and western cultures. Because of limited knowledge reserves, most students are shy to speak English in class and unwilling to express themselves actively. Therefore, in the classroom, students should be the main body and the teacher is supposed to design some attractive activities to make sure students can participate and express their views. Meanwhile, the teacher should give timely feedback and give encouragement no matter how well they express themselves.