Richard Harrison, a seasoned author, publisher, and educator in the field of English language teaching, has introduced a new beginner-level course titled “More English Please 1” aimed specifically at Arab learners. The course, released through his Canford Publishing imprint, based in Muscat and London, is designed to guide learners from starter to elementary proficiency using a structured approach that develops speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
Harrison, an alumnus of King’s College London and the University of Reading, brings extensive experience from his work across the Middle East, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Iran, and Oman. He has also served as an English for Specific Purposes (ESP) consultant with the British Council in Russia. His deep regional experience informs the development of this new series.
The design of “More English Please 1” takes into account the linguistic challenges faced by Arab learners due to the significant differences between Arabic and English. Harrison emphasized the importance of gradual progression and regular review to build learners’ confidence effectively. “The idea is constant recycling of language through review units and practical application,” he explained, highlighting the course’s focus on steady skill-building.
This release builds on the foundation laid by the earlier “English Please” series, which has seen widespread adoption across the Middle East among both adults and younger students. The new edition has been fully revised and modernized, integrating the workbook content directly into the student book for a more cohesive learning experience.
One distinctive aspect of the course is its emphasis on regional relevance. Lesson topics are set within familiar cultural and geographical contexts from the Arab world, and the characters featured span both Arab and international backgrounds. Each unit also dedicates sections to pronunciation, vocabulary, punctuation, and language usage, culminating with study summaries to consolidate learning.
The printing of the latest edition has been managed by Mazoon Printing in Oman, underscoring the country’s ongoing role in supporting the publication and distribution of educational resources tailored to the regional market.
