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New Inside Out Upper Intermediate

Sue Kay and Vaughan Jones (Macmillan 2009)
ISBNs 978-0-230-00914-1 (SB &CD); 978-0-230-00917-2 (class CDs); 978-0-230-00923-3 (WB & practice CD); 978-0-230-02101-3 (TB & test CD)

The course locates within the Council of Europe Framework (CEF) at level B2. An online version is also available, in the New Inside Out Practice Online series. A magazine style website offers more resources, at <www.insideout.net>.

Each (10 page) unit contains varied exercises and is divided into three appropriately illustrated sections. Many of the reading texts are adapted from recognised authors, for example Bill Bryson and D.H. Lawrence, while others are newsworthy or topical articles. The contents pages set out clearly the elements and aspects of grammar covered within each of the 12 units.

Grammar points are reinforced through a ‘mix and match’ strategy of ample practice exercises, and at the end of each unit is a useful ‘extras’ page, alternately featuring writing and vocabulary.

The workbook offers additional (self) practice, with an answer key at the back.
It is difficult now to find an EFL course book that covers unfamiliar topics; the most one can hope for, as offered here, is a new slant on old themes. I have covered several units with my advanced learners, and found them tutor- and student-friendly. I particularly like the reinforcement methodology, following each rule with plenty of practice exercises, using matching, gap fill, etc, and followed up in the workbook.

The teacher’s book provides a one-page overview of each unit, followed by detailed analysis of the exercises and further suggestions. Texts of the listening tests are helpfully printed within the relevant unit, rather than at the back, and there are additional copier-friendly pages.

All in all, I found these to be appropriate to the level at which they are aimed, while taking nothing for granted. For learners hoping to progress to certificate levels, I would be more than happy to use these as a sound basis for revision and reinforcement.

Pat Baxter
Pat Baxter Language Services, Arbroath