THE DIRECT METHOD

Welcome :)

 

Now it is time to learn about The Direct Method

 

Continuing with the methods of teaching, today I am going to explain what we have been learning in classes about The Direct Method, but first let me define it: The direct method of teaching, which is sometimes called the natural method, and is often (but not exclusively) used in teaching foreign languages, refrains from using the learners' native language and uses only the target language.

Some key aspects of this method:

It was established in Germany and France around 1900.

Was proposed by Maximiliam Berlitz

The basic idea of The Direct Method was that second-language learning should be more like first-language learning

Lots of oral interaction, spontaneous use of the language, no translation between first and second languages, and little or no analysis of grammatical rules)

There is no use of the mother tongue in the classroom.

 

Some Characteristics:

Classroom instruction was conducted in the target language.

Grammar was taught inductively.

Correct pronunciation and grammar were emphasized.

Both speaking and listening comprehension were taught.

Only everyday vocabulary and sentences were taught.

 

Why is this method important?

Because is on target.

Effective at creating fluent speakers of the target language.

It focuses on speaking.

 

Some techniques used in the method are the following:

Proliferation: Illustrate- repetition. Refers to something that is multiplying.

Visual Support:  Sensory mechanism, signs, and gestures, dramatize and demonstrate.

Listening Activities: Read a story, play audio, listening lessons.

Oral exercises and tasks: dialogues, asking questions, working in par o groups.

Stress-free and there is a supportive environment because is okay to make mistakes and the teacher is always there to support.

 

 

And as usual for this class we use the same dynamic of the SWOT analysis, the teacher asked us the students to discuss it with our classmates about it and then share the findings with him and as a class group we concluded  the following:

 

Strengths:

This method is focused on question-answer patterns.

Grammar is taught inductively.

The most important aspect is spoken language, so pronunciation and grammar are considered.

STT should be more than TTT on the time during the lesson.

Instructions are given in the target language.

 

Weaknesses:

There is no attention to some areas like reading and writing.

It is not convenient for large classes.

For people that are accustomed to teaching or to being taught with the Grammar Translation Method, Direct Method may not hold well.

Opportunities:

Students will improve their knowledge of Grammar and pronunciation. 

 It is a good method for intermediate and advanced teachers to make students´ skills float.

This method will open more doors in comparison with others.

 

Threats:

Teachers will neglect reading and writing activities because this method is focused on oral performance and pronunciation.

 

Also, we learn about the terms Inductively and Deductively, where Inductely refers to the grammar in context (DM) and Deductely refers to a direct explanation, straight to the point (TGTM).

To conclude with this method, I just want to recap that with the direct method all teaching is done in the target language, is focused on speaking and listening and only the useful language that we use in our everyday life is taught. Also, in the classroom, we are going to be able to see that teacher explains new vocabulary or the lesson using realia, visual aids, and demonstrations in order for students to learn in an easy way. Also, do not forget that the method is taught in an inductively way that refers to grammar in contexts.

All classes that we have about this method were fun because the teacher asked us to participate in different dynamics that are used in the method, for example, work in pairs or groups and have discussions about the topic or a different topic. It is fun to be in this class, I hope you enjoy my blog when you read it.

 

If you have further questions about this method, please reach me out.

 

Thank you for reading.

 

Until next time 

With love, Kat