Bohlke, D. (Ed.). (2013). Next generation grammar (Vols. 1–4). White Plains, NY: Pearson.

Next Generation Grammar (NGG) is Pearson’s newest four-level, blended-learning grammar series. All four levels are available in both print and e-book versions, and the series includes an online component called MyEnglishLab, which offers a variety of additional practice for students. The series also includes ActiveTeach, a component that provides additional pedagogical tools for the teacher.

Each book is composed of 10 units, and each unit is composed of two chapters that include an end-of-unit assessment. Each themed chapter includes schema-activating introductory material; a short reading; summary information; controlled exercises for two to three grammar topics; and speaking, listening, and writing practice based on the grammar topics.

The series promises to meet the needs of today’s students, one of which is offering students the valuable face-to-face interaction of the classroom along with additional practice via technology. It also offers real-life topics that should help to engage students’ interest (e.g., Networks of Friends, Global Links, Your Travel Personality). The series meets needs that students may easily identify, but it meets needs that teachers would identify as well. The grammar points in each chapter and each series are cycled; therefore, forms are repeated and presented in increasing complexity. For example, Book 1 offers simple present tense statements with be, and Book3 presents contrastive tense use.

The series also promises a task-centered approach that includes both writing and speaking skills. The tasks of learning grammar include exposure to and practice with the grammatical form itself. To that end, the series includes controlled practice exercises to reinforce the basic forms presented (e.g., exercises that ask students to fill in the blank, finish the sentence, and circle the correct word). These types of exercises are found in the student book and the e-book as well as in the online component of the course. Additionally, the task orientation aligns with the free practice that is provided in the text and online materials: discussing questions; building stories around pictures; and writing to summarize, make choices, and offer advice. At the end of each unit is a project for students to work on, such as a presentation, debate, or travel brochure.

The series also promises to integrate technology into the coursework, which is included in the MyEnglishLab and ActiveTeach components of the series. MyEnglishLab is not unique to NGG; it has been around since 2009 and other textbooks, such as Northstar, also include this resource. The textbook clearly states which activities in MyEnglishLab will help student continue to practice with the particular grammar topic. To access the online component, students “scratch off” the access code inside the front cover. Once logged in, they can practice vocabulary from the readings, listen to and answer questions about the reading, and fill in blanks with correct forms. Students receive immediate feedback on exercises, and all results are recorded in a gradebook.

On the teaching side, students’ work that is completed in MyEnglishLab is recorded; teachers are provided with a summary of students’ completion of and success with practice and assessments. Common Error Reports offer quick reference to the grammar points that most students are struggling with. Teachers can also tailor the online component to meet their needs. For instance, activities or even full chapters can be hidden from students, and teachers can add their own activities for students to complete. An additional feature offered by the series is ActiveTeach, which includes interactive whiteboard software and notes with teaching suggestions.

Next Generation Grammar could be a good choice for intensive English programs or programs that offer grammar courses. With its useful, multimodal grammar practice, which ranges from beginning to advanced levels, the series sets a high standard for other grammar series to achieve.