A Review of Persian Vocabulary in Use (Volumes 1 & 2) Based on Task-based Syllabus Design and Rubdy’s Model

Given the importance of materials evaluation in language teaching, particularly in Persian language teaching, the present study investigated Persian Vocabulary in Use (Volumes 1 & 2) from the perspectives of Rubdy’s (2003) model and task-based syllabus design. To this end, a number of Persian language instructors and learners were interviewed and the two volumes of the book were analyzed. The results revealed that, according to the instructors, the book was successful in creating and developing cooperative learning, providing authentic tasks, and classifying and grading the content. However, the learners believed that the book could not develop innovative techniques for vocabulary teaching and learning, but it could provide an opportunity for cooperative learning, and authentic materials. It also well introduced Iranian culture. However, the book was not able to develop creativity. According to the learners, learners’ needs were not met throughout the book either. Regarding the tasks used in this book, it was found that the necessary tasks were missing and that there was a need for more tasks. It can be concluded that the book should be revised based on the learners and the instructor’s ideas and that more communicative tasks should be inserted to the book.