Methods

 

Two methods from units 1, 2, and 3.

The direct method

The Direct Method, also called Natural Method, was established in Germany and France around 1900. It appeared as an answer to the shortcomings of the Grammar Translation Method. It is a method for teaching foreign languages that uses the target language, discarding any use of mother tongue in the classroom.

This method is focused on:

1. Translation is completely banished from any classroom activity. The activities are carried out only in the target language.

2. Oral teaching comes before any other kind of reading and writing activities.

3. Use of chain activities accompanied by verbal comments like: I go to the door. I open the door. I close the door. I return to my place. I sit down. (called the Gouin series)

4. Grammar is taught inductively. (i.e. having learners find out rules through the presentation of adequate linguistic forms in the target language.)

5. Emphasis is put on correct pronunciation and grammar.

Why is this a great method?

As Brown (1973) expressed ¨the Direct Method was quite successful in private language schools, such as those of the Berlitz chain, where paying clients had the high motivation and the use of native-speaking teachers was the norm¨ (p. 12).

Another fact regarding this method is what Krashen and Terrell highlighted (1983) said ¨this method it should be easier to make the meaning clear but not necessarily be accurate in all details of grammar¨(p. 71).

Finally, we have what Ozolins (1993) stated about the direct method ¨included a role-play and simulations based on the language needed to function in specific situations¨ (p. 206). 

Communicative Language Teaching (CLT)

Communicative Language Teaching (CLT), which is an approach to the teaching of second and foreign languages, emphasizes interaction as both the means and the ultimate goal of learning a language. It is also referred to as the “Communicative Approach”.

Why is this a great method?

CLT is a holistic approach. It doesn’t focus only on the traditional structural syllabus. It takes into consideration the communicative dimension of language.

CLT provides vitality and motivation within the classroom.

CLT is a learner-centered approach. It capitalizes on the interests and needs of the learner.

In a world where communication of information and information technology have broken new considerable ground, CLT can play an important role in education.