Uncovering English Present Tense Constructs in CEFR-Aligned English Language Textbooks for Malaysian Primary Schools

Abstract

English verb tenses are indispensable for accurately conveying the timing of actions or events, making them mission-critical for English as a Second Language (ESL) learners in Malaysian primary schools. This groundbreaking study delved into the English present tense constructs in four CEFR-Aligned English Language Textbooks for Malaysian Primary Schools: Get Smart Plus 3 Student's Book, Get Smart Plus 4 Student's Book, English Plus 1 Second Edition Year 5 Student's Book, and Academy Stars 5 Year 6 Pupil's Book. Employing qualitative document analysis, the researchers uncovered seven pivotal aspects of present tense constructs, with a particular emphasis on contextual variations and the simultaneous application of two aspects within sentences. The findings offered game-changing insights for English language educators, dramatically enhancing their comprehension of the constructions and contextualisation of the present tense in educational resources. Additionally, the study underscored three mission-critical roles of English verb tenses in ESL learning, particularly highlighting their direct relevance to present tense constructs. This groundbreaking discovery paved the way for the formulation of cutting-edge teaching strategies, ultimately empowering learners to wield English verbs with unparalleled effectiveness in context.