Tarzan has a problem. He cannot speak English properly. Why is that?
The reason why Tarzan cannot speak proper English is that he has not been EXPOSED to it. Exposure then, means to be surrounded by the language one is learning. There has been a lot of research on how to effectively teach English as a foreign language. The research outcomes let us know that exposure plays a fundamental role in language learning.
David Ausubel, a psychologist who formulated the theory of meaningful learning says that exposure is not enough if what is being said is not MEANINGFUL.
Experts also say that it is better to acquire the language, rather than learning it. What is the difference?
We also need to FOCUS our attention ON THE FORM of the foreign language: on how it is pronounced or written, on how its grammar is formed and used, and on the form and meaning of vocabulary.
Have you learnt English more successfully from formal study or just by picking it up?
According to experts, there are three main ways in which we learn a foreign language.
1. Acquisition, or picking it up, takes place over a period of time, not instantly, where a silent period takes place.
2. Through interaction. We need to use language to express our thoughts and ideas, and we need others to do that.
3. Focus on form. pay attention to language
There is a general agreement that we do not learn effectively using the grammar translation method, by learning grammar and translating. Nor do we learn by constantly practising until we form habits or just by communicating.
We learn by picking up language, interacting and communicating and focusing on form.
Reflection
Which method of learning English would you prefer: communicative, form-focused, grammar-translation, or a combination of these? why?
What method(s) do your learners seem to prefer? why? do you agree with their preferences?
See you next week!
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