COMMUNICATIVE LANGUAGE TEACHING (CLT)
1. What is Communicative Language Teaching (CLT)?
Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) is a modern approach to English language teaching that emphasizes the use of language for meaningful communication rather than the memorization of grammatical rules. It believes that language is best learned when learners actively participate in real-life communication.
In CLT, English is treated as a tool for communication. Fluency is given importance along with accuracy, and learners are encouraged to express ideas, feelings, and opinions even if they make minor errors.
2. Objectives of Communicative Language Teaching
- To develop communicative competence in learners.
- To enable learners to use English effectively in real-life situations.
- To promote fluency along with accuracy.
- To encourage interaction among learners.
- To develop confidence in speaking English.
- To integrate Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing (LSRW) skills.
3. Characteristics of Communicative Language Teaching
- Meaning is given more importance than grammatical form.
- Use of authentic materials like newspapers and real conversations.
- Classroom is learner-centered.
- Pair work and group work are frequently used.
- Errors are tolerated as a natural part of learning.
- Language is taught in context, not in isolation.
4. Steps in Communicative Language Teaching
- Introduction of Context: Teacher introduces a real-life situation.
- Presentation: Useful vocabulary and expressions are introduced.
- Guided Practice: Controlled activities like dialogues or role-play.
- Communicative Practice: Free interaction among learners.
- Feedback: Teacher gives feedback focusing on meaning.
5. Advantages of Communicative Language Teaching
- Improves speaking and listening skills.
- Develops real-life communication ability.
- Increases learner motivation.
- Builds confidence and fluency.
- Encourages cooperative learning.
- Makes language learning meaningful and enjoyable.
6. Disadvantages of Communicative Language Teaching
- Less focus on grammatical accuracy.
- Difficult to manage in large classrooms.
- Beginners may feel confused without structure.
- Requires skilled and trained teachers.
- Assessment of communication skills is difficult.
7. Conclusion
Communicative Language Teaching is a learner-centered and interaction-based approach that prepares learners to use English confidently in real-life situations. When combined with adequate attention to grammar, CLT becomes one of the most effective approaches to English language teaching.
CLT LESSON PLAN
Topic: Asking and Giving Directions
| Class | VIII |
|---|---|
| Approach | Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) |
| Time | 40 Minutes |
| Teaching Aids | Map, Flashcards, Blackboard |
| Objectives |
|
Steps of the Lesson
- Introduction (5 min): Teacher shows a map and asks simple questions.
- Presentation (10 min): Teacher introduces expressions like “turn left”, “go straight”.
- Guided Practice (10 min): Students practice dialogues in pairs.
- Communicative Activity (10 min): Role-play – asking directions to reach a place.
- Feedback (5 min): Teacher gives feedback and encouragement.
Evaluation
Students are evaluated based on their ability to communicate meaningfully and participate actively in conversation.
2.5 Micro Skills in ELT
Meaning of Micro Skills
According to IGNOU Pedagogy of English, micro skills are the specific sub-skills that together constitute the four major language skills (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing).
Importance of Micro Skills
- Help teachers plan focused activities
- Develop accuracy and fluency gradually
- Enable systematic skill development
Micro Skills of Listening
- Identifying sounds and stress patterns
- Understanding main ideas and details
- Predicting meaning from context
- Inferring speaker’s attitude
Micro Skills of Speaking
- Correct pronunciation and intonation
- Using appropriate vocabulary
- Maintaining fluency
- Using language appropriately in context
Micro Skills of Reading
- Skimming for gist
- Scanning for specific information
- Guessing word meaning from context
- Making inferences
Micro Skills of Writing
- Correct spelling and punctuation
- Organizing ideas logically
- Using cohesive devices
- Writing for different purposes
Teaching language means developing micro skills systematically, not teaching skills in isolation.
Conclusion
Communicative Language Teaching and Micro Skills form the core of modern ELT. While CLT provides the philosophical framework, micro skills provide the practical roadmap for effective language teaching.
References (IGNOU & Standard Sources)
- IGNOU – Pedagogy of English (B.Ed / M.Ed Study Material)
- NCERT (2006) Position Paper on Teaching of English
- Richards, J.C. & Rodgers, T. – Approaches and Methods in Language Teaching
- British Council – Communicative Language Teaching Resources
- Canale & Swain (1980) – Communicative Competence