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Laser B2 (Student’s book, with CD ROM)

Malcolm Mann and Steve Taylore-Knowles (Laser Series),(Macmillan Hellas 2008 [first published 2004])
ISBN Student’s Book and CD-ROM Pack: 978–960–447–170–6.

Laser B2 student’s book for teenage students is a First Certificate topic-based course designed to be used in conjunction with the other following components: Workbook with Key, with Audio CD, Workbook without Key, with Audio CD, Teacher’s book with photocopiable Tests and Audio CD, and Class Audio CDS.

The text is presented as a series of 12 units which focus on different topics relevant to the teenage target readers, such as relationships, technology, leisure, money and sport. A summary of the curriculum followed in the book is presented as a table at the beginning, clearly setting out the language aspects covered (such as grammatical and lexical features) and specific language skills practised by each unit. The book claims to offer “systematic exam preparation” for the First Certificate and the contents summary shows which parts of the exam are covered in each unit of work. Two revision units are also included, and reference databases for grammar, speaking, writing and vocabulary provide a helpful checklist for revising, for example, essay-writing skills.

The colour-coded pages of each unit cover six double page spreads and offer a mixture of reading, writing, speaking, listening, grammar and vocabulary exercises, using a combination of authentic texts and pedagogic exercises. Each unit includes tasks designed specifically to give exam-style practice, and helpful tips on exam techniques, but activities are not exclusively exam-oriented. Layout and presentation is colourful, clear and attractive, with up-to-date, relevant photographs. I particularly like the recurring “Have your say!” feature, which encourages students to discuss their own views of the different topics raised.

The overall feel of the book is accessible and user-friendly, but at the same time its coverage of material appears thorough, and to fulfil its claim to offer “integrated development” of key language skills and knowledge. I have not used this book in the classroom, but it would seem to achieve what it aims to do, although it perhaps tries just a little too hard to be relevant to teenagers.

Kate Fenn-Tye
Student, Stirling University