CC BY
0
УДК 37
Гаиров Г. Б.,
преподаватель кафедры иностранных языков Туркменского государственного университета имени Махтумкули,
SCIENTIFIC ARTICLE: METHODS OF TEACHING ENGLISH WITH VARIOUS APPROACHES
Abstract
The teaching of English has evolved over time, incorporating a wide array of methods aimed at addressing different learning styles and educational needs. This article explores the major methods of teaching English, examining specific approaches such as the Grammar-Translation Method, Communicative Language Teaching (CLT), Task-Based Learning (TBL), and the use of technology in education. Each method is evaluated for its strengths, weaknesses, and practical application in diverse classroom environments. Furthermore, innovative ways to enhance these methods, such as blended learning and differentiated instruction, are discussed to provide a more dynamic approach to English language teaching.
Keywords:
teaching english, elt methods, communicative language teaching, task-based learning, grammar-translation, technology in elt, blended learning
Introduction: The demand for English language proficiency has never been greater, with English serving as the lingua franca in international business, science, and education. As a result, educators continually seek the most effective methods to teach English, catering to learners with varied backgrounds, goals, and learning styles. This article explores several established methods in teaching English, offering insights into their application, effectiveness, and ways to enhance them to meet modern educational needs.
Grammar-Translation Method: One of the oldest and most traditional approaches to teaching English is the Grammar-Translation Method. Rooted in the teaching of classical languages such as Latin and Greek, this method focuses heavily on grammar rules and the translation of sentences between the native language and English.
Strengths: Provides a strong foundation in grammar and vocabulary. Emphasizes reading and writing skills, which are essential for academic purposes. Limitations: Lacks a focus on oral communication, making it less effective for learners who need conversational fluency. May not engage learners who prefer interactive, communicative, or immersive learning experiences.
Enhancement: Incorporating oral practice: One way to modernize the Grammar-Translation Method is by integrating spoken language activities to supplement grammar instruction, such as translation exercises followed by discussion in English.
Blended learning: Utilizing digital platforms that offer grammar drills alongside interactive listening and speaking activities can balance the rigid structure of this method with opportunities for practical language use.
Direct Method: The Direct Method contrasts with the Grammar-Translation Method by eliminating the use of the learner's native language altogether. The focus is on immersive learning, where students are encouraged to think and communicate directly in English. Grammar is learned inductively, and the emphasis is on speaking and listening. Strengths: Prioritizes spoken fluency and listening comprehension. Creates a more natural language-learning environment by using real-life contexts for language practice. Limitations: Less structured, making it difficult for some learners to grasp grammatical rules. Demands high proficiency and creativity from the teacher to maintain an immersive, engaging environment.
Enhancement: Task-Based Learning (TBL): To supplement the Direct Method, teachers can incorporate TBL activities where learner's complete tasks (e.g., solving a problem or conducting a role-play) entirely in English.
This not only strengthens fluency but also provides a purpose-driven context for language use.
Visual aids and technology: Incorporating multimedia tools, such as interactive apps or visual storytelling, can make immersion easier for beginners, providing visual cues to support understanding without translation.
Communicative Language Teaching (CLT). Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) emerged in the 1970s as a response to the limitations of traditional methods, focusing on the functional use of language. CLT emphasizes meaningful communication and interaction as the primary goal of language learning. The method encourages real-life communication scenarios and often integrates all four language skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—into one lesson.
Strengths: Develops communicative competence, helping students use English in practical, everyday situations. Engages learners through interactive and authentic language use, which enhances motivation and retention.
Limitations: Can sometimes overlook grammatical accuracy, particularly if fluency is prioritized over precision.
Requires skilled teachers who can manage communicative activities effectively while ensuring linguistic accuracy.
Conclusion. The methods of teaching English have evolved to accommodate the diverse needs of learners, from the traditional Grammar-Translation Method to more communicative and interactive approaches like CLT and TBL. By incorporating technology and adopting blended learning strategies, teachers can enhance these methods to provide more flexible, personalized, and engaging language learning experiences. The key to effective teaching lies in selecting and adapting methods that align with the learners' needs, goals, and contexts, ensuring that both fluency and accuracy are developed in a balanced and meaningful way. References:
1. Richards, J. C., & Rodgers, T. S. (2014). Approaches and Methods in Language Teaching. Cambridge University Press.
2. Nunan, D. (2004). Task-Based Language Teaching. Cambridge University Press.
3. Harmer, J. (2007). The Practice of English Language Teaching. Longman.
4. Larsen-Freeman, D., & Anderson, M. (2011). Techniques and Principles in Language Teaching. Oxford University Press.
© TaMpoB TE., 2024
УДК 37
Гылыджова А.Ю.,
преподаватель кафедры «Теория и практика перевода» Туркменского национального института мировых языков имени Довлетмаммета Азади.
Ходжамырадова С. Б., преподаватель кафедры «Теория и практика перевода» Туркменского национального института мировых языков имени Довлетмаммета Азади.
SOME METHODS OF TEACHING ENGLISH
Abstract
The process of teaching English has evolved significantly, with diverse methodologies emerging over time to cater to various learning styles, cultural contexts, and educational needs. This article examines the most widely
