The essay investigates the questions of “what is the most effective way of teaching?” and “what is the most effective way of teaching a foreign language to non-native speakers?”. To elucidate this issue, we discuss the role of play and games in foreign language learning,the efficacy of different teaching methods.
A teacher’s involvement is also highlighted.
Lavrova N.A.
PhD., The Department of English Lexicology,
Moscow State Pedagogical University
TOWARDS THE EFFICACY OF FOREIGN LANGUAGE TEACHING
The question of “what is the most effective way of teaching?” does not lose its topicality, nor does the more specific question of “what is the most effective way of teaching a foreign language to non-native speakers?”. Clamouring for the communicative approach has become a banality, the approach being introduced and implemented with variable success in many classroom settings. Methodological, educational and disciplinary bases seem to be a priority, so much so that it is not uncommon to hear a view, at least among Russian teachers of English, that it is not so much the knowledge of the language that matters, but the aspects just mentioned. This becomes the reality because organizing schoolchildren into a disciplined, more or less perceptive and responsive group is the bane of many teachers. A classroom setting differs from a family one in that everything is forced there from without, and it is only the hardly attainable ideal that ultimately the process of learning should become internalized by schoolchildren. Among lots of subjects, a foreign language may be a specific stumbling block, for it is literally “foreign” to schoolers, therefore motivating them must be one of the first items on the agenda. Given the lack of theoretical knowledge of the mother tongue, it is not surprising that starting to teach English by extensively explaining to schoolers the obscure and most of the time not very intelligible theory about it, does not quickly hit the bull’s eye, and falls on deaf ears. As a result, the majority of inexperienced teachers give up and shift to the implementation of the more rigorous routine of setting tasks and demanding their immaculate completion within a strictly defined time period. While it probably works for getting learners to do their homework, it is doubtful that in the long run this approach is conducive to acquiring a good command of the language.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main focus of Lavrova N.A.'s text, "Towards the Efficacy of Foreign Language Teaching"?
The text explores the ongoing debate about the most effective methods for teaching foreign languages to non-native speakers, particularly focusing on the challenges and realities faced by teachers in Russian educational settings.
What are some of the issues highlighted regarding the communicative approach?
While the communicative approach is widely advocated, the text suggests its implementation can be inconsistent and that methodological, educational, and disciplinary concerns often overshadow the actual language learning process itself.
What problem does the text identify among Russian teachers of English?
The text points out a tendency among some Russian teachers to prioritize classroom management and discipline over actual language instruction, often due to difficulties in engaging and motivating students.
Why does the author suggest that traditional theoretical explanations of English grammar may be ineffective?
The author argues that many students lack a solid understanding of their native language's grammar, making abstract explanations of English grammar confusing and discouraging.
What alternative teaching methods are discussed in the text?
The text mentions the use of play and games in foreign language learning, acknowledging its potential effectiveness with younger learners but raising questions about its suitability for older students. It emphasizes that the type of game matters and that linguistic games are more appropriate for mature learners.
What does the author suggest is the consequence of teachers who prioritize routine task completion?
The author contends that while a routine of tasks may ensure homework completion, it is doubtful this method effectively promotes a deeper understanding and command of the foreign language in the long run.
What are some of the Keywords of the text?
Foreign language teaching, communicative approach, efficacy, methodology, discipline, motivation, play, games, linguistic games, routine task completion.
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- Natalie Lavrova (Autor), 2010, The Efficacy of Foreign Language Teaching, Múnich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/153121
