This paper outlines a lesson plan for teaching the NATO phonetic alphabet to flight dispatchers as part of an Aviation English course for English for Specific Purposes (ESP) at King Khalid University. It addresses the specific vocabulary needs for flight communication, where clear and standardized language is crucial for air travel safety. The paper first discusses ESP course design and the importance of specialized vocabulary for aviation professionals, emphasizing the role of effective communication between pilots and dispatchers.
The lesson plan includes stages for presentation, practice, and production, using activities such as listening to recordings, flashcards, and interactive quizzes. A KWL (Know, Want to know, Learned) chart is used to assess student knowledge and engagement, while videos and flashcards introduce and reinforce the NATO phonetic alphabet's practical use. The plan culminates in a practice activity where students simulate dispatcher-pilot exchanges, enhancing both recognition and verbal communication skills.
The paper highlights that by using the NATO phonetic alphabet, dispatchers can communicate accurately and avoid misunderstandings. It advocates for incorporating these methods into ESP programs to improve aviation communication skills, ensuring workplace applicability and enhancing safety in aviation contexts.