A Study of the Representation of Culture in the Speak Now and Stretch Textbooks Used in Chonburi Technological College, Thailand

The current research considers that language, context, and culture are inextricably linked as their starting point, and this viewpoint has two significant consequences for foreign language teaching. Textbooks have historically been essential in influencing English classrooms. The present research has concentrated on the methods and practices linked to context and culture found in Stretch 1A, Stretch 1B, and Speak Now English textbooks currently used at Chonburi Technological College in Thailand. Content analysis was used to answer the research questions and derive meanings from words or images selected in the Stretch 1A, Stretch 1B, and Speak Now English textbooks to determine the context in which they are used and understand their relationship to one another to draw inferences about the underlying culture. The present study has found concrete links between the English textbooks used by the Chonburi Technological College and various elements of culture employed to facilitate a better understanding of the Thai students' English-speaking countries. All three textbooks under analysis use different cultural teaching methods for non-native learners in interactive classroom activities that allow them to practice English as a communicative, interactive process. Furthermore, the study found that the Speak Now Student Book is more focused on improving students' communication skills, stimulating them to speak confidently and effectively. Through Speak Now Student Book - Online Practice, the students can enhance their listening, speaking, and pronunciation abilities outside of class by allowing them to talk, record, and submit to instructor activities. In contrast with Stretch 1A and Stretch 1B, the Speak Now Student Book is the first English learning book to introduce dialogue videos to provide real-life models of English communication while emphasizing the native English culture. Key Words: Foreign Language Teaching, English textbooks, Stretch 1A, Stretch 1B, and Speak Now, Chonburi Technological College Thailand