Methods of Teaching English As Foreign Language
Definitions:
( Methodology – Method – Technique – Approach )
1- Methodology : it is the science and study of pedagogical practices conducted by the teacher and it is related to how to teach .
2- Method : it is a generalized set of classroom specifications for accomplishing (achieving ) linguistic objectives { the subject matter of the lesson, the rule of the teacher and learner .
3- Technique : any of a wide variety of exercises, activities or devices. Technique is something unique.
4- Approach : Theoretical position and believes about the nature of language or language learning theories.
1- Grammar-Translation Method :
A- Historical background :
It appeared in the 16th and 17th century when Latin was studied as ( Foreign language ) in the British schools. They studied it for achieving some objectives { to understand the classical works of art }. They taught Latin through grammar and translation.
B- Key Features :
1- Classes are taught in the mother tongue with little use of foreign language.
2- Much vocabulary is taught in the form of word lists (two columns).
3- Long explanations of grammar are given.
4- Focusing on the form and infliction of words.
5- Reading of difficult classical tests is begun early.
6- Little attention is paid to the content of the text.
7- Exercises in translating separated sentences from foreign language to the mother tongue.
8- little or no attention is given to pronunciation and speaking.
C- Criticism :
A- Points of weakness:
1- Neglecting listening, speaking and pronunciation.
2- Much use of the mother tongue at the expense of the foreign language.
3- Interest in the form at the expense of the content.
4- Focusing in translation on disconnected sentences.
B- Points of strength:
1- Easy to use for the teacher and learner.
2- It saves much time and effort.
3- It is easy to prepare teacher accord to this method.
4-It is suitable for teaching translation.