COURSE 1-Module 4-Least Appealing Language Methods
In my opinion, the least appealing language methods are Grammar Translation, Suggestopedia, and TPR.
1)Grammar Translation focuses on reading and writing to the exclusion of listening and speaking skills. Students do not learn how to effectively communicate. The focus is on structure and the class is teacher controlled. However, I have learned thousands of words of vocabulary by translating individual words when reading literature. As well, grammar translation's focus on the target language's culture also promotes cultural awareness through rich literature.
2)Suggestopedia isn't a method in which I think students can learn all they need to know about a language. Doing dialogs with soft music and low lighting is not possible in many classrooms. Students may also not take learning seriously in such a setting. However, I think Suggesestopedia could be used as an aid to teach certain scenarios like restaurant dinning.
3)TPR couldn't be used to teach many abstract verbs or abstract vocabulary which limits what students could learn. Learning a language entails more than using the imperative. It also focuses on kinesthetic learners to the exclusion of other learners.
I agree that these 3 methods certainly have their drawbacks! TPR is interesting but does draw on the imperative tenses an awful lot! CAn you think of any other ways that this method could be adapted?
ReplyDeleteI think that TPR could be valuable in teaching the present continuous and for teaching sports/cooking/cleaning verbs and the vocabulary that goes along with them.
DeleteLuisa
Hi Luisa,
ReplyDeleteI agree with your assessments. And I found your consideration of the role of literature in language interesting- I hadn't thought about that aspect.
Tammy