GRAMMAR TRANSLATION METHOD

12.   GRAMMAR TRANSLATION METHOD :

·         traditional method of second language teaching in schools

·         Most common language teaching method

·         Stressed the literacy development

·         Method is two-fold

·         Teacher centered

            Objectives of Grammar Translation Method :

·         To be able to read literature written in  the target language

·         To be able to translate from one language to another

·         To develop reading and writing skill

Characteristics of Grammar-Translation :

·         Learners need grammar and vocabulary

·         Taught deductively

·         Learned for passing English written Exams

·         Extensive memorization of:

- Rules

-Grammatical paradigms

-Verb conjugations

                        Teacher’s Role :

Ø  Requires little training

Ø  Control of classroom

Ø  Follows text book format

Ø  Little interaction with students

            Student’s Role :

Ø  memorize vocabulary

Ø  verb declensions

Ø  learn rules of grammar

Ø  take dictation

Ø  translate written passages

Ø  Right answers are expected

Ø  Little interaction with teachers and other students

Conclusion

The Grammar Translation Method was developed for the study of “dead” languages and to facilitate access to those languages’ classical literature.

2.      Whole language

            Whole Language is a theory of language instruction that was developed to help young children learn to read.

Focus on components :

·         Grammar

·         Vocabulary

·         Word Recognition

·         Particular the teaching of ‘Phonics’

Language use is always in a social context, and this applies to both oral and written language, to both first and second language use.Rigg 1991: 523

Learning Activities :

·         Prepare the texts and exercises to practice individual reading skill

·          Individual and small group reading and writing

Conclusion

                        The Whole Language movement is not a teaching method but an approach to learning that sees language as a whole entity.The purpose is to maintain the authenticity of the language and help children learn to read and write.