Examples of Methods in Teaching Languages as a Foreign Language or Second Language

Teaching methods in the field of foreign language or second language have been developing until now. Here are some examples of There are some methods that have ever been popular in teaching languages as a foreign language or second language.
 

1. The grammar translation method

The grammar translation method instructs students in grammar, and provides vocabulary with direct translations to memorize. The objective is that by the time they leave college, the pupil have mastered the vocabulary, grammar and the orthography, to be able to read, understand and write texts in various contexts.

Activity: students asked to translate short stories to ensure the entire class understands so more students can participate in the exercises that follow the story or other texts to his first language (L1), then they have to answer questions in L1

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2. The direct method

The direct method, sometimes also called natural method, is a method that avoids using the learners' native language and just uses the target language. This method places great stress on correct pronunciation and the target language from outset.

According to this method, printed language and text must be kept away from second language learner for as long as possible, and grammar and translation should also be avoided because this would involve the application of the learner's first language.

Activity example: teacher shows map or picture in the front of the class then they asked student questions (in target language) about it and student must answer in target language as well.

3. The audio-lingual method

The audio-lingual method has students listen to or view recordings of language models acting in situations. Students practice with a variety of drills, and the instructor emphasizes the use of the target language at all times. It's a "non-communicative approach (to teaching) that involves heavy use of mimicry, imitation and drill. Speech (and listening) and not writing is emphasized.

4.      Silent Way 

      The silent way is discovery learning approach, it is also often considered to be humanistic approach. It is called silent way because teacher is usually silent, leaving class for the student to talk and explore language.

5. Communicative language teaching

Communicative language teaching (CLT) is an approach to the teaching of languages that emphasizes interaction as both the means and the ultimate goal of learning a language. CLT involves many classroom activities like group work, pair work, language games, role play, question-answer sessions. It is not confined to any set of text books. The learners are mostly introduced task based and problem solving situations.

In recent years, Task-based language learning (TBLL), also known as task-based language teaching (TBLT) or task-based instruction (TBI), has grown steadily in popularity. TBLL is a further refinement of the CLT approach, emphasizing the successful completion of tasks as both the organizing feature and the basis for assessment of language instruction.

6.  Participatory Learning

Participatory Learning is allowing the students to offer ideas and feedback about what goes on in the classroom. Participatory Learning empowers the student and thus increases their intrinsic motivation to participate in classroom activities. This provides a better learning environment in the classroom for all the students and the teacher.

 Activity: When playing a game, students are asked to provide suggestions for the list of topics they will use in the game and the order in which they would like them to appear. The teacher can also ask if the students would like to play for points to determine a winner or for no points-just for fun. Students are also allowed to create their own English team names and choose team members.

7.       Total Physical Response (TPR)

TPR "involves giving commands to which students react."TPR is great for all ages and especially beginners as it allows them to learn the L2, while giving them time to maximize the potential of their silent period. Commands are 1^st given by the teacher and then it's possible to let students give the commands. "The lessons themselves are not focused on grammar; instead they are focused on meaning". TPR answers the question of what to do with absolute beginners. Once the teacher has demonstrated the meaning of the sounds she is saying, students recognize those sounds and play along. The cognitive value of these exercises is absorbed by the student naturally.

Activity: teacher introduces basic classroom items and commands like: open/close your book, raise your hand, pick up/put down your pencil, sit down, be quiet, listen, repeat and get into groups.