摘要: | This study aims to investigate the use of multi-word verbs (MWVs, e.g., sit down, look at, come up with) in English textbooks in elementary and junior high schools in Taiwan. The research materials are taken from three versions of English textbooks in elementary and junior high schools respectively. The versions used at the elementary school level are published by Hess, Pearson, and Kang Hsuan, and those at the junior high school level by Nani, Joy and Han Lin, and Kang Hsuan. The study also explores how MWVs have been incorporated in EFL textbooks for elementary schools and junior high schools in Taiwan. The study found that, firstly, the MWVs used in elementary schools number 38 in total; each textbook version uses different MWVs in different numbers. Secondly, there are 138 MWVs used in junior high schools; again, each textbook version cites different MWVs in different numbers. Finally, there are 147 MWVs used when both elementary and junior high school textbooks are included. Of the 147 MWVs found, 29 from the elementary editions are re-introduced in textbooks used in junior high schools. The findings indicate that most MWVs used in elementary school textbooks can also be found in junior high school versions. However, their distribution appears to differ across various versions and across different levels. It is hoped that the findings of this research can serve as a reference for policy-makers of EFL education in Taiwan, for EFL textbook publishers, and for EFL teachers, and in turn aid EFL learners in Taiwan. |