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Submission Guidelines

The first step in the submission process is to contact the ESL acquisition editor David Coombes (david.coombes@oup.com or 541-246-9853) to discuss the book idea. This is best done in a one page introductory letter that contains information about the book, and about the author’s training.

If both Oxford and the author decide that they would like to proceed forward then a prospectus must be submitted that includes the following sections, along with any other relevant information pertaining to the project.

The Book

  • A synopsis and description of the book
  • A detailed table of contents, including all headings and subheadings
  • A brief outline of the book's distinctive or innovative features, with a more detailed description of the two or three most important ones
  • A brief outline of the characteristics of the book (i.e. end-of-chapter summaries, checklists, exercises, etc.)
  • The length and format of the book
  • A description of the look of the book (i.e. pictures, inserts, charts, etc.)
  • The pedagogical approach the book takes and the reasoning behind it
  • Supplements that are intended to go with the book (i.e. instructor's manual, exercise book, etc.)
  • Report on how much of the book is currently completed
  • Estimate of the time required to complete the manuscript

 

The Author(s)

  • An explanation of why the author(s) is writing the book
  • Resume from the author(s)
  • A note about any other experience that qualifies the author(s) in the field
  • A note about any sales avenues that the author may have access to
  • Other interesting facts about the author that may be influential in the selling or marketing of the book

 

The Market

  • Is the book for the classroom or independent learners?
  • Is there a specific program, class, or level for which it is intended?
  • What is the approximate size of the market for this book? How was this number reached?
  • What books would be in competition with this book?
  • How this book will set itself apart from the competition?

 

Sample Chapter

Please provide sample chapters that highlight the writing style, pedagogical approach, and prominent features of the book.