HOW WE VIEW LEARNING AS A TEACHER helps students understand and retain the material more

effectively.
Introduction
2. Communicative Approaches
As educators, our understanding of how
learning occurs significantly influences our teaching Communication is the most important aspect of
practices. This exploration delves into various language. Meaning is communicated through functions,
approaches to language teaching, examining their grammar, vocabulary, discourse and skills.
underlying philosophies and methodologies. By
- Functions: The various purposes language serves, such
understanding these different perspectives, we can
as informing, requesting, persuading, or expressing
make informed decisions about how to effectively
emotions. Vocabulary: The words and phrases used to
facilitate language acquisition in our classrooms.
convey meaning. The grammatical rules and patterns
Key Approaches to Language Teaching that govern how words are combined. Discourse: The
way language is used in context.
1. Structural Approach
Communicative Approaches
Language is a system of structures used to
communicate meaning. The best way to learn language is to use it in interaction,
rather than to learn about it.
- These structures are the building blocks of language,
and they determine how words can be combined to - Rather than focusing on memorizing grammar rules
form meaningful sentences. This approach emphasizes and vocabulary lists, learners should be encouraged to
the importance of mastering these structures in order experiment with language and learn through practice.
to communicate effectively. The communicative approach puts the learner at the
Language is learnt through controlled practices center of the learning process. Learners are seen as
of simpler structures, than more complicated ones. active participants who can contribute to their own
Mistakes should be avoided. learning by setting goals, making choices, and reflecting
on their progress.
- Learning is structured in a step-by-step manner, with
learners moving from simpler to more complex EXAMPLE
structures. Mistakes are identified and corrected
1. CLT teachers focus on being facilitators rather than
immediately to prevent incorrect language habits from
straightforward instructors. Doing so helps students
forming.
achieve CLT’s primary goal, learning to communicate in
EXAMPLE the target language instead of emphasizing the mastery
of grammar.
1. The structural approach teaches all four central
language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. - CLT teachers help students develop their
It’s a technique that teachers can implement with many communication skills and confidence in using the target
other language teaching methods. language.

- While grammar is a central focus, it’s not taught in EXAMPLE

isolation. Students are exposed to language in various
- Some example activities. Role-play: Students take on
contexts and are given opportunities to practice all
different roles and act out scenarios in the target
skills. This comprehensive approach ensures that
language. This helps them practice using the language in
students can effectively use the language they learn.
real-life situations. Interviews: Students interview each
2. Most ESL textbooks take this approach into account. other or conduct research using the target language.
Easier to grasp grammatical concepts are taught before This encourages them to ask and answer questions, and
the more difficult ones. to gather information. Group work: Students
collaborate on tasks, which promotes teamwork,
- Easier grammatical concepts are introduced first,
cooperation, and language use in a meaningful context
providing students with a strong base before moving on
to more challenging topics. This sequential arrangement
3. Grammar- Translation - Language learning is more like acquiring a first
language – it happens naturally through exposure and
Language is made up of grammatical rules.
use. Formal instruction is important, but it’s not the
- Language is primarily seen as a system of grammatical only way to learn.
rules and structures. It emphasizes the formal aspects
2. Language is learnt best when you use language to
of language, such as syntax, morphology, and
learn something else. - Emphasizes the importance of
semantics. The focus is on mastering the rules of
meaningful context for language learning. When
grammar and applying them correctly in writing and
language is used to learn about other subjects, it
reading.
becomes more relevant and engaging.
Language is learned by analyzing and applying
EXAMPLE
grammatical rules.
 Focus on Tasks in the Classroom:
- Learners are presented with grammatical explanations
 Role-plays
and exercises that require them to apply these rules.
 Interpersonal Communication
The process often involves translating sentences from  Reading book
one language to another, hence the name “Grammar-
Translation.” The end goal is to de-compartmentalize knowledge
between subject and language classes, so students can
EXAMPLE apply new information to their entire school curriculum,
A way of teaching in which students study grammar and and even outside the classroom.
translate words into their own language. They do not EXAMPLE
practice communication and there is little focus on
speaking. A teacher presents a grammar rule and - De-compartmentalizing knowledge is to break down
vocabulary lists and then students translate a written the traditional silos between different subjects and
text from their own language into the second language. languages, fostering a more interconnected and holistic
learning experience.
- Learners are often required to memorize vocabulary
lists and grammatical paradigms. The focus is primarily - Peer teaching: Allow students to teach each other,
on written language, with less emphasis on spoken reinforcing their understanding and helping them
language and pronunciation. develop leadership skills.

Content and Language Integrated Learning Conclusion

1. Language serves to communicate meaning. As teachers, our understanding of how language

learning occurs influences our choice of approach and
- It’s not just about mastering grammar rules or method. By exploring different perspectives, we can
vocabulary, but about effectively conveying ideas, develop a more informed and effective teaching
thoughts, and feelings or emotions. practice.
2. All aspect of language help communicate meaning,
e.g. skills, discourse, lexis, grammar, and function.

- The interconnectedness of language components.

Skills (speaking, listening, reading, writing), discourse
(how language is used in different contexts), lexis
(vocabulary), grammar, and functions (what language
can do) work together to create meaningful
communication.

1.Language is learnt mainly through acquisition and

through using it. Language does not need to be
obviously focused on.