The assigned readings for this week dealt with different approaches to teaching a second language. The MCM readings dealt more with communicative competence, what it is, and how to use it in the classroom (or even outside it). The HDB readings introduced us to different methods of teaching languages throughout the centuries. It gave explanations of each method, who developed it, and also its criticisms. It worked its way up to modern methods, such as CLT (communicative language teaching). Both books went into detail about how a communicative approach to language teaching is preferred now. MCM talked more about ways to use this approach, and HDB gave more of a definition.
While the communicative approach is stressed now, that has not always been the case. I have been in classrooms where it seemed the Grammar Translation Method was still being used. The way those instructors taught the language is not what teachers are being told to do now. Today, we are being told it is best to teach in the target language, and that meaning is more important than form.
I think it is good to know what other ideas/approaches/methods are out there, and to draw your own conclusions about them. While the Grammar Translation Method may not have been the best way to learn a language, I can't say that I didn't learn anything at all when I was taught this way.
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2 comments:
I appreciate catching a glimpse of what you thought about the different methods and your experiences with these methods. I would have loved to have read more about YOUR OWN reflections/thoughts/opinions.
I agree with your last point. I did acquire a large amount of grammar and vocabulary when i was taught in the Grammar Translation Method by my teachers in my first years learning English. I believe this method works best with elementary-level students who have just started their language learning journey.
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