Sawsan Dahiyat

*Integrating English for Specific Purposes (ESP) with General English subject into the Tawjihi Examination: in Light of the restructure of the New Split-Based Examination System


One of the biggest assets of Jordanian society is passing the Tawjihi examination; it is considered one of the most significant milestones in the student`s academic journey, since it represents a quantum leap ,as its result defines the student`s eligibility to higher education and career opportunities, so the weight of that score becomes a necessary burden and socially valued certificate that rolls from generation to another.

As Jordan is well- known for its continuous and systematic educational development over the past decades; it has invested considerable efforts in educational process. Moreover remarkable advancements have been made to educational programs to determine their suitability for keeping pace with the modern instruction.

Wherefore the Ministry of Education envisioned the exact right of eliminating the traditional division streams to a split-based exam of the academic and the vocational tracks that are potentially connected with labor market needs. Under this restructures, it becomes appeared that, the new Tawjihi`s tracks mustn’t be disconnected from English for specific purposes(ESP) course to be integrated with General English subject.

ESP course as many have defined: it is a targeted language course which tailoring English to focus on specialized vocabulary, contextual grammar besides using the communicative approach and techniques that are required to meet the demands of the particular field or a career path. Nevertheless, without undervaluing General English subject; it essential main course because it mainly focuses on communicative competences and improving the four language skills which make a strong alignment and function simultaneously toward English learning objectives framework.

English for specific purposes (ESP) course as an integrated course with General English subject can bridge the gap between English language and employment, where the student becomes well prepared , professionally equipped and eligible for the expected future career.


*Sawsan Dahiyat: English Language Methodology Specialist, University Lecturer, Trainer, and Educational Consultant