Methods of Teaching English (Long Answers)
Grammar Translation Method • Direct Method • Bilingual Method • Dr. West’s Method
1. Grammar Translation Method
Introduction
The Grammar Translation Method is one of the oldest and most traditional methods of teaching English. It originated from the teaching of classical languages such as Latin and Greek and was later adopted for modern languages. For many years, it dominated English teaching in India due to its close connection with examination-oriented education.
Meaning
The Grammar Translation Method focuses on teaching English through the detailed study of grammar rules and vocabulary, followed by translation of sentences and texts from the mother tongue into English and vice versa. Accuracy is emphasized more than fluency.
Main Features
- Grammar is taught deductively through rules and explanations.
- Translation is the main classroom activity.
- Emphasis is on reading and writing skills.
- Mother tongue is freely used.
- Speaking and listening skills are neglected.
Role of Teacher and Learner
The teacher plays an authoritative role by explaining grammar rules and meanings. Learners are passive recipients who memorize rules, vocabulary, and translations.
Merits
- Develops grammatical accuracy.
- Suitable for large classes.
- Useful for examination preparation.
- Easy to apply with limited resources.
Demerits
- Fails to develop speaking ability.
- Makes language learning mechanical.
- Does not promote real-life communication.
Conclusion
Though outdated in communicative terms, the Grammar Translation Method still holds value for teaching grammar and reading in examination-focused contexts.
2. Direct Method
Introduction
The Direct Method developed as a reaction against the Grammar Translation Method. It aimed to teach English in a natural way, similar to how a child learns the first language.
Meaning
The Direct Method teaches English directly through English without the use of the mother tongue. Meanings are conveyed using objects, pictures, actions, and real-life situations.
Main Features
- No use of mother tongue.
- Priority to listening and speaking.
- Grammar taught inductively.
- Vocabulary taught through demonstration.
Role of Teacher and Learner
The teacher acts as a model speaker and facilitator. Learners actively participate by listening, speaking, and imitating correct language forms.
Merits
- Improves fluency and pronunciation.
- Encourages thinking in English.
- Makes learning lively and interesting.
Demerits
- Difficult to apply in large classes.
- Unsuitable for beginners.
- Time-consuming.
Conclusion
The Direct Method is effective for oral skill development but is difficult to implement fully in Indian classroom conditions.
3. Bilingual Method
Introduction
The Bilingual Method emerged as a practical solution to the limitations of both the Grammar Translation Method and the Direct Method, especially in multilingual countries.
Meaning
The Bilingual Method allows the controlled and judicious use of the mother tongue along with English to ensure quick understanding and effective learning.
Main Features
- Limited use of mother tongue.
- Emphasis on understanding meaning.
- Sentence patterns taught orally.
- Translation used only as support.
Role of Teacher and Learner
The teacher clarifies meanings using the mother tongue when necessary, while learners focus on practicing English structures.
Merits
- Saves time.
- Reduces learner anxiety.
- Suitable for Indian classrooms.
Demerits
- Risk of overuse of mother tongue.
- Less exposure to English.
Conclusion
The Bilingual Method is a balanced and learner-friendly approach when the mother tongue is used carefully and purposefully.
4. Dr. West’s Method (Reading Method)
Introduction
Dr. Michael West developed this method after observing the needs of Indian learners. He believed that reading is the most useful skill for learners who need English for academic purposes.
Meaning
Dr. West’s Method emphasizes silent reading as the chief objective of English teaching, while speaking is considered secondary.
Main Features
- Priority to reading comprehension.
- Silent reading preferred.
- Controlled vocabulary.
- Grammar taught indirectly.
Role of Teacher and Learner
The teacher guides comprehension, while learners develop independent reading habits.
Merits
- Useful for academic learning.
- Encourages self-study.
- Suitable for examination needs.
Demerits
- Neglects speaking skills.
- Limited communicative competence.
Conclusion
Dr. West’s Method is valuable for reading development but insufficient for holistic language learning.
Standard References
- Richards & Rodgers – Approaches and Methods in Language Teaching
- NCERT (2006) Position Paper on Teaching of English
- British Council – ELT Methodology Resources
- West, M. (1926) Teaching English in India
Distinguish Between Major Methods of Teaching English
Grammar Translation Method • Direct Method • Bilingual Method • Dr. West’s Method
Comparative Distinction
| Basis | Grammar Translation Method | Direct Method | Bilingual Method | Dr. West’s Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Aim | Mastery of grammar and translation | Natural acquisition of spoken English | Clear understanding with limited L1 support | Development of reading ability |
| Use of Mother Tongue | Extensive use | Completely avoided | Judicious and controlled use | Very limited or indirect use |
| Focus Skills | Reading and writing | Listening and speaking | All skills with emphasis on understanding | Reading (silent reading) |
| Teaching of Grammar | Deductive (rules first) | Inductive (rules inferred) | Indirect and supported by L1 | Implicit through reading |
| Vocabulary Teaching | Through translation | Through objects, actions, situations | Through English with L1 support | Controlled vocabulary lists |
| Classroom Language | Mostly mother tongue | Only English | Mainly English, some L1 | Mainly English texts |
| Role of Teacher | Authoritative instructor | Model speaker and facilitator | Guide and explainer | Reading guide |
| Role of Learner | Passive memorizer | Active participant | Active with support | Independent reader |
| Speaking Practice | Neglected | Highly emphasized | Moderately emphasized | Almost neglected |
| Suitability for India | Exam-oriented but outdated | Difficult in large classes | Highly suitable | Useful for academic needs |
Distinguish in Brief (For 5–8 Marks)
Grammar Translation Method vs Direct Method
The Grammar Translation Method relies heavily on the mother tongue and focuses on grammar and translation, whereas the Direct Method avoids the mother tongue completely and emphasizes oral skills and natural language learning.
Direct Method vs Bilingual Method
The Direct Method uses only English in the classroom, while the Bilingual Method allows limited use of the mother tongue to ensure clarity and save time.
Bilingual Method vs Dr. West’s Method
The Bilingual Method aims at overall language development, whereas Dr. West’s Method primarily focuses on developing reading skills for academic purposes.
Conclusion
Each method of teaching English has its own objectives, strengths, and limitations. No single method is perfect. An effective English teacher selects and combines methods according to learners’ needs, classroom conditions, and educational goals.
.jpeg){kind=avatar}
No comments:
Post a Comment