The Last Photo
Longman Easystarts is a series of low level readers designed for students who are just starting to read and who want to read books which are simple but not childish. The stories are considered particularly suitable for students starting English at secondary school. The language level is pitched lower than Longman Structural Readers Stage 1 (which has a basic vocabulary of 300 words) and the structures, sentence length and vocabulary are carefully controlled. Each page of the book is made up of 2/3 of illustration and 1/3 of text, and the illustrations should facilitate and reinforce comprehension as well as making the books attractive to students. There are questions at the back, and an accompanying cassette is available which contains readings of all six stories in the series. The story of this book revolves around the time when Pam and Martin go sight-seeing in Cambridge. Martin tries to take a photo of Pam and accidentally photographs a man who is wanted by the police...
Unraveling Crime and Luck
"The Last Photo," authored by Bernard Smith and part of the Penguin Readers: Easystarts series, takes readers on a serendipitous journey through the streets of Cambridge, England. The story unfolds as siblings Martin and Pam inadvertently capture a criminal on camera, leading to a series of events that intertwine chance, appearances, and crime.
The narrative is centered around the theme of chance, as Pam's penchant for photography inadvertently plays a pivotal role in the plot. The accidental photograph of a man wanted by the police sets the stage for an unexpected adventure. The element of chance is further heightened when Pam and Martin coincidentally witness the man boarding a bus to Scotland, a moment that becomes crucial in solving the crime.
Appearances also play a significant role in the story. Martin's keen attention to detail allows him to recognize the wanted man's face, despite the man's attempt to alter his appearance. This theme emphasizes the importance of careful observation and challenges the notion that appearances can be easily changed or concealed.
Crime serves as a central element, showcasing the consequences of unlawful actions. The narrative implies that criminals often make mistakes, leading to their eventual capture by the police. In this case, the man with the rucksack is apprehended because of a seemingly innocent act – walking in front of Pam's camera. The story subtly conveys the message that crime doesn't pay, and wrongdoers are likely to face the repercussions of their actions.
The book is part of the Longman Easystarts series, designed for students who are just starting to read in English. The language level is carefully controlled, making it accessible for those at the beginner level. The combination of text and illustrations on each page aims to facilitate comprehension and engage readers. The inclusion of questions at the end encourages reflection and comprehension, enhancing the overall educational value of the book.
Smith's storytelling is concise and well-suited for readers at the early stages of English learning. The narrative is compelling, with a simple yet engaging plot that revolves around a relatable scenario of sightseeing and photography.
The conclusion of the story is both satisfying and surprising. Pam and Martin's inadvertent involvement in solving the crime not only brings justice but also rewards them. The unexpected £1,000 reward serves as a stroke of luck for Pam, allowing her to fulfill her desire for a new camera. This twist adds a layer of positivity to the narrative, reinforcing the theme that chance occurrences can lead to fortunate outcomes.
In summary, "The Last Photo" is a delightful addition to the Penguin Readers: Easystarts series. Bernard Smith successfully weaves a tale that combines elements of chance, appearances, and crime, creating an accessible and engaging story for English language learners. The book not only serves as an entertaining read but also provides educational value, making it a recommended choice for those embarking on their English language learning journey.
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Bernard Smith, Author & Teacher 
A Lifetime Dedicated to Language Education
For four decades, Bernard Smith has been an unwavering force in the field of education, leaving an indelible mark on English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction. With a career spanning 40 years, and a specialization in EFL for the last 30, Smith's journey is a testament to his passion for teaching and commitment to the world of language education.
Bernard Smith's teaching odyssey took him to diverse corners of the globe, including South Yemen, Libya, and Oman. His roles as a teacher encompassed both Arabic and English, reflecting his deep cultural engagement and linguistic versatility. It was during these international experiences that Smith not only honed his teaching skills but also began crafting teaching books and materials to enhance the learning experience for his students.
In the United Kingdom, Smith served as the Director of Studies for several schools under the Association of Recognised English Language Schools (ARELS). His leadership and expertise played a pivotal role in shaping language education in the UK. Notably, for two decades, he served as the Controller and principal author of the Oxford-ARELS oral examinations, contributing to the development and refinement of language assessment methodologies.
After a fulfilling career in teaching, Smith transitioned seamlessly into the realm of writing. His freelance work in EFL has produced impactful materials that continue to guide educators and learners alike. Among his notable contributions are the Cambridge University Press publications, including "Learner English," which he co-edited with Michael Swan, and "The Man from Nowhere" as part of the Cambridge English Readers series.
Beyond the classroom and writing desk, Bernard Smith remains a devoted advocate for the power of language learning. His retirement from formal teaching has not dampened his enthusiasm for shaping the future of language education through his written works.
Explore the rich tapestry of language education with Bernard Smith, a seasoned educator and prolific writer, whose influence has touched students and teachers around the world.
