Three of my books converge: Sukhomlynsky (know the child’s family, health and inner world), Dunn (the liked adult is the motivation) and Harmer (age, level, setting and purpose change the method). Learner knowledge is the first planning input, not an add-on.
What to know (synthesis (Claude))
- Purpose: why they’re learning (exam, school subject, travel, EAP); Harmer: this sets emphasis, materials and target level.
- Age and level: YL / teen / adult; beginner successes are easy to see, intermediates plateau, advanced need evidence of progress.
- Setting: class size (8–15 private vs up to 30 state), school policy and syllabus constraints.
- The person: interests, family situation, health, previous school experience (Sukhomlynsky).
Tools
- First-lesson learner profile card; a 5-question needs survey for teens and adults; parents’ short form for YL.
- For DELTA Module 3 this is the needs analysis section.
Connections
DELTA Module 3 - writing the needs analysis section · Mixed-level classes - one goal, differentiated response depth · Needs-analysed TBLT lesson - in-flight problems in ATC English