1. Methods & Approaches in Language Teaching (1)
Zhang Lu
Shanghai Normal University

2. Task 1 Discuss in the group of four, what do
you think are the differences between
the concepts of method and approach?

3. Generally speaking, the two terms are often used interchangeably
Generally speaking, the two terms are often used interchangeably. But in English language teaching context, they are identified as two different terminologies.
In real practice, approach is of the theory of learning language including learning process.
Method usually refers to a way, or a technique, or process of doing things.
Method of learning emphasizes the teaching process while approach focuses on both the teaching and the learning process.

4. Teaching Methods & Approaches
1. The Grammar/Translation Method
2. The Direct Method
The Audio-Lingual Method
The Communicative Approach

5. Grammar – Translation Method (1)
It used to be & still is the most popular
teaching method.
Features:
Abstract rules about grammar
Focus on translation
Memorization/rote - learning
Over use of L1
Dominance of the written form. Tests or sentences to practice grammatical items.

6. Grammar-Translation Method (2)
Advantages:
Large class can be taught
Teachers with low level of oral ability can be used
This approach can be used at all levels
Learners can use coursebook on their own
Disadvantages:
Content of materials often boring and of little interest to learners
Inappropriate for young learners who can not read much
Exposure to authentic spoken language absent

7. Direct Method (1) Never List Always list
It appeared as a reaction to the grammar-
translation method in the early years of
20th century.
Never List Always list
NEVER translate ALWAYS demonstrate
NEVER explain ALWAYS act
NEVER make a speech ALWAYS ask questions
NEVER imitate mistake ALWAYS correct
NEVER use the book ALWAYS use your lesson plan
NEVER go too fast ALWAYS keep to the learners’ pace
NEVER speak too slowly ALWAYS speak normally
NEVER speak too loudly ALWAYS speak naturally

8. Direct Method (2) Features: Meaning conveyed through demonstration
“see-hear-say”
Teacher replaces book as the model
Accuracy in speaking & writing emphasized
Speech dominates over writing
Immersion in the target language
Teaching through target language
Grammar learnt inductively from examples
Use of visual aids

9. Direct Method (3) Advantages: Disadvantages:
It gives the opportunity to speak in meaningful contexts.
It encourages spontaneous speech by learners
Lessons can be very lively in the early stages.
Disadvantages:
Small groups are normally required
Difficult to provide enough variety of content & activity after a while.
Teachers must be fluent speakers of the language.

10. Audio-Lingual Method (1)
Based on the psychological theory of
Behaviorism (Stimulus – Response – Re-
inforcement)
Features:
Language is structured into patterns to be learnt
Habit formation central to language learning (stimulus-response-re-inforcement)
Use of target language in classroom. No L1 to avoid interference.
Need to memorise (“over-learn”)
Primacy of speech over writing (hear-say-see-write)
Grammar taught when language familiar
Errors to be avoided to counter “wrong” habits

11. Audio-Lingual Method (2)
Advantages:
Medium-sized classes can be used
Much practice of listening & speaking
Can be used at elementary and intermediate levels
Learners can form grammatically-accurate language
Disadvantages:
Fluent & confident teachers needed
Repetition can be very boring and meaningless
Little exposure to spontaneous or authentic speech
Reading writing are neglected & not treated as independent forms

12. The end