Journal of English Teaching, Applied Linguistics and Literatures (JETALL)
Vol 8, No 2 (2025): Jetall

Evaluating English Language Textbooks through Tomlinson’s Theory: A Systematic Review

Andrew Panji Damai (Universitas Lambung Mangkurat)
Rina Listia (Universitas Lambung Mangkurat)
Elsa Rosalina (Universitas Lambung Mangkurat)



Article Info

Publish Date
08 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study aims to examine the strengths and limitations of English language textbooks as identified in a range of scholarly publications focused on content analysis of instructional materials. Numerous textbooks—whether produced by governmental or independent publishers—have been evaluated through various theoretical lenses, with Brian Tomlinson’s comprehensive framework being one of the most frequently employed. Utilizing a systematic literature review, this research critically explores the pedagogical merits and shortcomings embedded within English textbooks or coursebooks as documented across the selected studies. A total of eight peer-reviewed articles published between 2018 and 2025 were analyzed using Tomlinson’s evaluative criteria. The objective of this research is to determine wether Tomlinson’s Theory is effective to develop a good textbook. The findings indicate that while the majority of textbooks demonstrated strong alignment with Tomlinson’s principles. The comprehensive analysis of the findings categorized as "not specified" in the reviewed articles highlights the importance of further investigation and targeted refinement in the development of language education materials. These ambiguous or inconclusive results underscore the need for continued research and systematic evaluation to enhance the clarity, effectiveness, and inclusivity of English language learning resources, ultimately contributing to more equitable and learner-centered educational practices.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jetall

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

JETALL is published twice a year in the months of May and October. It publishes within the fields of teaching English as a second or foreign language, English language teaching and learning, English language teachers' training and education, and English language and applied linguistics and literary ...