ESL teaching approaches refer to the techniques, principles, and strategies that educators use in the teaching and learning process of English language. They help to ensure that learning material is delivered clearly and concisely in an engaging and memorable way.
ESL Teaching Theories
Behaviorisme
by B.F. Skinner. -Language learning is the process of forming a habit through stimulus and responding. -Memorising, drilling and habit formation.
Example: Teachers give a text to students and ask them to memorise the text. Students do not need to understand the text.
by Noam Chomsky. -Humans are born with the ability to acquire language. -Believes that every language share the same framework for grammar which is Universal Grammar (UG). -Language Acquisition Device (LAD) is a theoretical mechanism in the brain that allows children to learn language quickly and naturally.
by Lev Vygotsky. -Focus on interaction and social engagement. -Zone of Proximal Development is the zone where students will be exposed to knowledge they may not know unless they are assisted by experts. -Scaffolding occurs when assistance is provided from expert to novice.
Example: Students are put in small groups to complete a writing task and a more proficient student helps a less proficient student to form his/her sentences.
In the direct method, the lecture is
conducted entirely in the target language and learners are encouraged to not
use their first language. Translations are not allowed as this encourages the learner to think in the target language. Practitioners of this method
believe that learners should experience a second language without any
interference from their native tongue.
This method stresses interaction and
communication to teach a second language effectively. For example, learners may
practice introductory conversations, offering suggestions, making invitations,
complaining, or expressing time or location. Instructors also
incorporate learning topics outside of conventional grammar so that learners develop the ability to respond in diverse situations.
This teaching strategy emphasizes students’ independence and individuality. With this method, students complete
real-world tasks using their target language. Popular classroom tasks practiced
in task-based
learning include presentations on an assigned topic and
conducting interviews with peers or adults in the target language.
The total physical response method
combines language and physical movements for a comprehensive learning
experience. For example, teacher would give verbal commands in the target
language with a physical movement. The student would respond by following the
command with a physical action of their own. This method suggests that students learn the target language best through physical response rather than by analysis.
Kagan strategy is a scientific research-based program conducted by Dr. Spencer Kagan which focused on coorperative learning and student engagement. The main purpose of using Kagan Strategy in classroom is to increase students' engagement and participation in the process of learning and teaching.
Four Key Components
1.Positive Independence
This strategy focuses on promoting teamwork among students in achieving the same goal. It teaches students to understand that tasks can be done together with classmates.
1.Positive Independence
Example: Two students should coorperate and encourage each other in completing a task.
This strategy pays attention to students' performances in class. Students must contribute and perform where their performance must be visible to others.
2. Individual Accountability
Example: Lessons designed should ensure every students have the chance to participate and share their ideas.
