The Natural Approach to Language Teaching: Emphasizing Input over Practice

 When it comes to language teaching, what is the best way to approach it? Should students focus on memorizing grammar rules or should they concentrate on input, which means simply absorbing language through listening and reading? In 1983, Tracy Terrell and Stephen Krashen proposed a new approach called the Natural Approach, which emphasized language input over language practice.


In the Natural Approach, the goal is to develop communication skills, not to memorize grammar rules. The emphasis is on comprehending the language rather than practicing it. Krashen and Terrell believed that language acquisition is a natural process that can be facilitated by creating an environment rich in language input. They also believed that language acquisition is different from language learning.


According to the acquisition/learning hypothesis, acquisition is an unconscious process, while learning is a conscious process. In other words, acquisition is the natural process of absorbing language, while learning involves memorizing rules and consciously applying them.


The monitor hypothesis is related to learned language. According to this hypothesis, learners use their memorized rules to monitor their own performance. This is a conscious process that can be useful for self-correction, but it does not aid in language acquisition.


The natural order hypothesis is concerned with the order in which learners acquire grammatical structures. Krashen and Terrell observed that learners tend to acquire certain grammatical structures in a predictable order, regardless of the language being learned. This order can be disrupted by attempts to apply general rules to all aspects of the language.


The input hypothesis suggests that learners need to be exposed to input that is just beyond their current level of competence. This means that learners should be exposed to language that is slightly more advanced than what they already know, but not so difficult that they cannot understand it. This input should be comprehensible, which means that learners can understand the meaning of the language without extensive explanation.


The affective filter hypothesis takes into account learners' emotions and attitudes. According to this hypothesis, learners need to be in a positive, stress-free environment in order to acquire language effectively. Stress, anxiety, and lack of confidence can impede language acquisition.


Overall, the Natural Approach emphasizes the importance of language input, comprehensible input, and a positive learning environment. By focusing on input, learners can acquire language naturally, without having to rely on memorization and practice. This approach can be especially helpful for learners who are looking to develop their communication skills quickly and effectively.




Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Example Philosophy of Teaching Statement

Example #1  As an educator, I believe that every student has the potential to succeed, and it is my responsibility to help them reach their full potential. My approach to teaching is centered on creating a safe and inclusive learning environment that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. In my classroom, I see myself as a facilitator of learning rather than a lecturer. I aim to create an environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas, and where they are encouraged to ask questions and explore new concepts. I believe that students learn best when they are actively engaged in the learning process, so I strive to create hands-on activities and group projects that challenge students to think critically and work together. Another key component of my teaching philosophy is the importance of diversity and inclusion. I believe that every student deserves to feel valued and respected, regardless of their background or identity. To create a safe
Read more

The Power of the Lexical Approach in Language Learning

 As an English language learner, have you ever struggled to understand why certain words and phrases work together in certain contexts? Do you find yourself confused by grammar rules and exceptions to the rules? If so, you may want to explore the Lexical Approach, a teaching method that has gained popularity in English language learning in recent years. The Lexical Approach recognizes that language is made up of chunks of words and word combinations, rather than just individual words and grammatical rules. These groups of words, known as holophrases, prefabricated patterns, gambits, or speech formulae, are what make up the bulk of the English language. By focusing on these chunks of language, learners can more easily understand and produce natural-sounding English. The approach was developed based on research by linguists and studies of learner English. Its key principles include prioritizing lexis over grammar, recognizing the importance of sociolinguistic competence, and emphasizing
Read more

Assessment

 Assessing English language learners is a critical component of effective teaching. As educators, we must be able to evaluate our students' progress in language or skill acquisition and usage. There are four main language skills that students will acquire in the process of learning English: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. It is important to keep these skills in mind when developing lesson plans, as they must be taught in the correct order for the most natural progression in language attainment. Language skills can be categorized into two groups: receptive/productive or oral/written. Listening and reading skills fall under the receptive/oral category while speaking and writing skills fall under the productive/oral category. In addition to language skills, teachers can also assess component skills such as vocabulary, pronunciation, spelling, and grammar. Students' competency in each of these skills will vary based on their English proficiency level, which can be classi
Read more