The Concept of Activity Route Map and Its Role in Learning
What is an Activity Route Map?
It is a structured framework that shows the sequence of steps learners should follow to complete a task.
What does “exploiting an activity” mean?
It means maximizing the educational potential of a classroom task.
How are Activity Route Map and Exploiting an Activity related?
The route map provides structure, while exploitation provides depth.
What skills can be taught using route maps and exploitation in reading?
Prediction, scanning, summarizing, and creative adaptation.
Which three stages are common in task-based instruction according to Ellis (2003)?
Pre-task, during-task, and post-task.
What are the three levels of exploiting an activity?
Basic use, extended use, and creative use.
What question does the route map answer?
It answers “What comes next?”.
How can a speaking lesson be exploited beyond the route map?
By adding peer feedback, “what if” scenarios, or recordings for self-assessment.
How does a route map support learner autonomy?
It allows students to anticipate the next stage and prepare for it independently.
How can a listening comprehension task be exploited?
By answering factual questions, analyzing vocabulary, and creating a new news broadcast.
What question does exploitation answer?
It answers “How can we get the most out of this step?”.
What online tool can support writing exploitation?
Google Docs for collaborative writing.
What is an example of a reading comprehension route map?
Pre-reading (activate knowledge) → reading → comprehension questions → discussion → writing task.
According to Nation (2001), what are the four strands of learning activities?
Meaning-focused input, meaning-focused output, form-focused instruction, and fluency development.
What is an example of exploitation in peer review during a writing lesson?
Training learners to use rubrics like CEFR writing descriptors.
According to Scrivener (2011), what does exploiting activities achieve?
It transforms routine exercises into multi-layered learning events.
Why is visualization important in a route map?
Because charts or diagrams make the learning process clear and easy to follow.
Why should teachers exploit activities instead of treating them as “one-shot exercises”?
To integrate multiple skills and encourage critical thinking and creativity.
What did Littlewood (2011) find about combining structure and exploitation?
It improved learners’ accuracy and fluency.
What transferable skills do learners gain from mapped and exploited activities?
Collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity.