Finger Correction

How can you correct mistakes in word order in a non-verbal way How can you correct mistakes in word order in a non-verbal way? Finger counting is simply perfect for this! «Finger correction» is a feedback method used to demonstrate errors in spoken English. In short, finger correction involves assigning a finger to represent each word within a given phrase or sentence. 

-Hold up one hand, showing the number of fingers for the number of words in the student’s sentence . -Indicate that one finger represents I one represents am, one represents not and one represents working. You can do this by pointing at one finger and saying I , then the next and saying ‘am, then the next and saying ‘not’ (and so on). You can hold fingers together to show contractions (e.g. 1st finger I, 2nd finger AM, two fingers held together I’m)

You can easily show the mistakes. The place of prepositions You can easily show the mistakes. The place of prepositions. If you don’t need this word in sentence, bend your finger like this..

If you show the place of articles in sentence, point and say that articles between your fingers

Let’s do it together!

If a student used the wrong word order to ask a question: «You are a teacher?», «He is a footballer?». Ask the student to repeat the question and then show him or her how you count the words on your fingers. Show the student how the first two fingers are in the wrong order, so that the student understands the question should start with «Are you…?» , «Is he …?»

I want to concentrate how to indicate grammar mistake in sentence (a wrong word). For example: ‘I (1) has (2) done (3) my (4) project(5).’ The error is the second word (‘has’) . You can point to the second finger, with a questioning tone: “has?” or say «Mm..»

Why is it worthwhile to consider using these techniques? • They make students remember things easily and give them the opportunity to visualize; • They reduce Teacher Talking Time; • They provide ways of error correction, indicating stress, showing contractions, intonation; • They might help you create good rapport with the students; • They may help teachers express themselves more effectively.