A linguistic

Main Sections of the Course

  • I. A View on Approaches and Methods of Language Teaching

    • Presenting technical concepts related to language teaching.

    • Discussing main approaches and methods in language teaching.

    • Analyzing advantages and limitations of each method.

  • II. Teaching Language Skills and Language Components + Lesson Planning

    • Teaching Reading

    • Teaching Listening

    • Teaching Writing

    • Teaching Speaking

    • Teaching Vocabulary

    • Teaching Grammar

Approaches and Methods in Language Teaching

  • Didactics

    • Science of teaching and instructions.

    • Theory of teaching and learning.

    • Inquires about who should learn what, with whom, where, and why.

Key Definitions:

  • Approach:

    • Based on general assumptions about language and how it is learned (Richards and Rodgers, 1986).

    • Describes:

      1. The nature of language

      2. How knowledge of a language is acquired

      3. Conditions that promote language acquisition

  • Method:

    • Practical implementation of an approach.

    • Encompasses decisions about:

      • Skills to be taught.

      • Roles of teacher and learner.

      • Appropriate procedures and techniques.

  • Procedure:

    • Defined as an ordered set of techniques used in teaching.

    • Example: In the grammar-translation method, starting with grammar rules before translation exercises.

  • Technique:

    • Practices operating under a specific method.

    • Moment-to-moment classroom steps.

    • Example: Using "silent viewing" during video lessons.

Main Language Teaching Approaches and Methods

  • Grammar Translation Method:

    • Emphasizes grammar rules and vocabulary translation.

    • Instruction in the native language with practice through translation exercises.

    • Noted limitations: students struggle to use language practically.

  • Direct Method:

    • Focuses on speaking and listening, avoiding use of the native language.

    • Utilizes real objects and visuals for vocabulary acquisition.

    • Emphasizes communication rather than grammatical analysis.

    • Follows a five-step process: Show, Say, Try, Mold, Repeat.

  • Audiolingual Method (ALM):

    • Developed due to insufficient results from grammar-translation.

    • Based on behaviorist psychology focusing on dialogue memorization.

    • Reliance on language laboratories for oral practice.

    • Limitations: Scripts restrict communication ability.

  • Suggestopedia:

    • Developed by Georgi Lozanov to eliminate psychological barriers in learning.

    • Incorporates drama, art, and relaxation techniques into the language learning process.

    • Relies on a comfortable classroom atmosphere for effective learning.

    • Not widely adopted due to practical limitations in large classes.

  • Total Physical Response (TPR):

    • Developed by James Asher, emphasizing physical responses to commands.

    • Ideal for students not yet verbalizing, helping them feel successful in participation.

    • Integrates movement into lessons to enhance engagement.

  • Natural Approach:

    • Developed by Tracy Terrell based on Krashen's theories.

    • Focuses on developing communicative competency through extensive interaction.

    • Language learning parallels natural language development processes.

    • Emphasizes acquisition over forced learning of grammatical rules.

  • Communicative Approach:

    • Prioritizes meaningful communication through real-world tasks and interactions.

    • Emphasizes learner engagement in authentic language use.

    • Faces implementation challenges with beginner learners and large classes.

  • Lexical Approach:

    • Proposes that lexis is fundamental in language; emphasizes learning through chunks rather than strict grammar.

    • Activities focus on listening, reading, and using dictionaries.

  • Competency-Based Approach:

    • Learner-centered; progression based on mastery of specific knowledge and skills.

    • Emphasizes self-paced learning and adequate assessment of competencies.

  • Standards Based Approach:

    • Focused on what learners must achieve; accountability for learning outcomes.

    • Incorporates performance-based assessment into teaching.

  • Cooperative Learning:

    • Organizes students into groups for collaborative learning experiences.

    • Emphasizes positive interdependence and individual accountability.

Conclusion

  • The study of language teaching methods is diverse and constantly evolving.

  • Eclecticism is vital in adapting varied approaches to meet student needs; this should be principled rather than arbitrary.