Total Physical Response (TPR) "Babies don't learn by memorizing lists; why should children or adults?"

Total Physical Response (TPR) What is TPR? TPR is an approach to teaching a second language, based on listening linked to physical activities which are designed to reinforce comprehension.

Total Physical Response (TPR) INTRODUCTION Total Physical Response (TPR) is a method developed by Dr. James J. Asher to aid learning second languages. The method relies on the assumption that when learning a second or additional language, that language is internalized through a process of code-breaking similar to first language development Students respond to commands that require physical movement. TPR is primarily intended for ESL teacher, although the method is used in teaching other languages as well. Learning needed to become more enjoyable and less stressful

LEARNING HYPOTHESES 1. An innate bio-program exists for language learning that defines an optimal path for 1st and 2nd language development Brain lateralization defines different learning functions in the left and right brain hemispheres Stress is viewed as affective filter – the lower the stress, the greater the learning

TPR & The Natural Order 1. Children develop listening competence before they develop the ability to speak. At early stages of 1st language acquisition, they can understand complex utterances that they cannot spontaneously produce or imitate. 2. Children’s ability in listening comprehension is acquired because children are required to respond physically to spoken language in the form of parental commands. 3. Once a foundation in listening comprehension is established, speech evolves naturally and effortlessly.

Teacher directs and students “acts” in response Key Features of TPR Teacher directs and students “acts” in response Listening and physical response skills are emphasized over oral production The imperative mood is the most common language function used even up to advanced levels. Interrogatives are also included

Humor is used in lessons to make them enjoyable for learners Key Features of TPR Humor is used in lessons to make them enjoyable for learners Students are not required to speak until they feel naturally ready and confident enough Grammar and vocabulary are emphasized over other language areas. Spoken language is emphasized over written language

Total Physical Response (TPR) What is the connection to the classroom?   TPR is not always dancing and singing songs! Generally, we refer to body movement with instruction to engage learners. Students learn by identifying a certain key point to some action. TPR can be used for all curriculum, literacy, science, math, and so on.

Total Physical Response (TPR) Who benefits most from TPR? TPR seems to work effectively for children and adults. There is no age barrier. The only setback is that if the language training starts after puberty, the probability is almost certain that one will have at least some accent in speaking the second language, no matter how many years one lives in the foreign country. http://www.tprsource.com/asher.htm English speaking students who have little academic reinforcement at home.

Total Physical Response (TPR) Who benefits most (cont . . .) Struggling students Teachers are noticing growth in students learning, and boosting the academic levels in their classrooms.

Common / Typical Techniques Using commands to direct behavior Role reversal – students direct teacher and fellow learners Action sequence

Total Physical Response (TPR) Example of Activity This is an example of an effective TPR activity that students can perform at their seats. Each student has a kit such as the interior of a kitchen. Then you say in the target language, "Put the man in front of the sink.“ With your play board displayed so that it is clearly visible to the students, you place the man in the kitchen of your kit and your students follow by performing the same action in their kits.

Total Physical Response (TPR) 50 Strategies for Teaching English Language Learners, Chapter 11 – Integrating Movement into Language Acquisition “In first-language learners, children acquire receptive language before they attempt to speak, they develop understanding through moving their bodies and they are not forced to speak until they are ready”

Total Physical Response (TPR) Step by Step (steps for teaching TPR lesson) 1. Choose physical vocabulary, - ex. Stand up, show me the door, (language used in the classroom) 2. Introduce vocabulary gradually - Start with 3 & randomly use 3. Drop the physical modeling 4. Add additional commands

Total Physical Response (TPR) Step by Step (steps for teaching TPR lesson) 5. Add additional responses -Find new ways for students to display their understanding of vocabulary, ex. draw picture 6. Play games for additional practice - only when students gain confidence 7. Assess student progress & understanding (easy to visually assess, make a checklist)

Learner Roles LISTENER AND PERFORMER Listen attentively and respond physically Produce novel combinations on their own MONITOR AND EVALUATE OWN PROGRESS Encouraged to speak when ready

Teacher’s Roles ACTIVE AND DIRECT Decides what to teach, models and presents new materials Selects supporting materials for classroom, detailed lesson plan TEACH AND PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR LEARNING Responsible to provide opportunities for learning Responsible to provide the best kind of exposure to language Controls language input that learners receive Provide raw material for “cognitive map’ that learners will construct in their own minds Allow speaking abilities to develop at learner’s own pace

Advantages of TPR Fun and Easy: Students enjoy activity! Simple TPR activities do not require a great deal of preparation on the part of the teacher. TPR is inclusive and works well a class with mixed ability levels. Good for kinesthetic learners who need to be active in class. Good tool for building vocabulary. Actions help build connections in the brain. Helps learners achieve fluency faster by immersing learners in activities that involve them in situational language use. Good instructional practice for ESL’s in their silent period. Works well for child and adult learners.

Disadvantages of TPR Most useful for beginners. Preparation becomes an issue for teachers at higher levels. Students are not generally given the opportunity to express their own thought in a creative manner. It is easy to over use TPR and begin to bore students. May limit teachers in term of scope of language that can be addressed. Can be a major challenge for shy students. Use of TPR in teaching abstract language – activities can be limited to the directly obvious, visible and physically “doable”