III. Communicative Language Teaching

The late 1960s saw a shift in focus from the Audiolingual Method to Communicative Language Teaching. (Sep a table)

3.1. Communicative Approach

Distinguishing Features

All 4 language skills are taught from the beginning. In speaking skills the aim is to be understood, not to speak like a native. Priority is given to learner interests and needs. In the Communicative Approach, if a learner needs to know how to give advice ("If I were you, I would ...") then this conditional is taught. Interaction between speakers and listeners or readers and writers is at the root of the activity.

3.2. Total Physical Response (tpr) and the Natural Approach

Distinguish ing Features

Language skills are taught in the natural order of acquisition: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Listening is the basis for language acquisition. According to Natural Approach a teachers should create a learning environment which promotes self-confidence. When presenting new material you are to be prepared to speak, mime, draw, or use real objects to get your meaning across.

3.3. Competency-Based Approach

Distinguishing Features

The learner's needs dominate this approach. Language skills and grammar and vocabulary are sequenced according to the learner's needs. Translation is used rarely. Context is used as much as possible Authentic materials are used. The learner is encouraged to practice the language by performing real tasks outside of the classroom. This approach is bases on interaction. Pair and group work is used.

IV. Innovative Language Teaching

These innovative approaches have been included in this chapter because in your pre-service or in-service language training you may have been taught by language trainers using the Silent Way, Community Language Learning, and you may have asked yourself which elements of these approaches could be used in your classes.

4.1. The Silent Way

Distinguis hing Features

All 4 language skills are taught from the beginning. Special charts are used to teach pronunciation, words and other aspects of the language.4.2. Community Language Learning (CLL)Distinguishing Features The focus is on listening and speaking. Grammar is given when necessary. The syllabus and materials are designed mostly by the learners. This method works in small groups and which requires special training for a teachers. 4.3. Suggestopedia

Distinguishing Features Great attention is paid to the environment. Comfortable reading, light, music in the background, colorful posters and charts are pinned to the walls. The teacher represents a text in too language (foreign and native) the teacher reads the text, the students relax, close their eyes and listen. Homework - to read the text before going to bed, in the morning after getting up. Role playing in the class.

4.4. Dramatic Pedagogical Method. It is a new method of teaching which is based on the concept that much can be taken from actors. The teacher makes a dialogue from the text book alive, vivid, interesting. The use of alive pictures.