I. Topic

Enhancing students' confidence in speaking and motivation in learning English through a task-based learning approach and strategic integration of formal and informal curricula

II. Purpose of the study:

The purpose of this project is to find out how effective creating a real purpose for learning English through a task-based learning approach and making links between the formal and informal curricula are in motivating S1 students to learn and speak in English.

III. Characteristics of the project

1. A textbook unit on a school outing was replaced by a school-based module. During the lessons, students learned to talk about popular tourist activities and the characteristics of various tourist attractions in Hong Kong.
2. A range of scaffolding activities was provided for students to work collaboratively and learn the target language and vocabulary about the theme.
3. Differentiated materials which vary in the amount and style of guidance and support were designed to cater for students with different levels of readiness in accomplishing the final tasks.
4. Classroom teaching was linked to an outing to Stanley where students accomplished purposeful and contextualized tasks in groups including collecting information about Stanley and interviewing tourists.
5. Students presented and wrote about their findings after the outing.

IV. Assessment tools

1. Observations made during lessons
2. Students' work
3. Teachers' interviews