Approaches and Methodologies
for Second Language Instruction
Grammatical Approach
Teacher-centered emphasis on the
rules and structure of target language
Fails to offer the best language
instruction for CLD students
memorizing language & rules
grammar-based drills & practice
Does not emphasize
how to use the language
Does not promote motivation
or authentic language
Methods
Grammar-Translation----focuses on grammatical accuracy without
meaningful translation, lacks oral language development, & more
emphasis on development of reading, writing, & grammar
Direct-----sequenced guided instruction with focus
on total immersion in L2, discouraged translation
(no L1), open-ended response to materials the
teacher brings into the classroom, some emphasis
on context using objects, diagrams, & photographs
Audiolingual-----focuses on memorization & recall, emphasizes
on correction, drills, and repetitive practice, minimal use of L1
Strategies: Drill & Practice, and Rote Memorization
Examples: Dialogue Memorization,
Repetition, Mnemonics, and Kinetics
Communicative Approach
Methods
Silent Way-----focus on teacher modeling/talk,
repetition/signals, seldom content-based, and L1 was not used
Natural Way----Communication was made meaningful, language input was
comprehensible, silent period was recognized & respected, building of comprehension skills,
acceptance of students' L1, minimal error correction, not necessarily content-based
Suggestopedia----focus on a relaxed physical setting,, emphasis on learner personality & motivation,
use of visual aids for support, text through multiple modalities, use of L1 for explanations
Integrated Content-Based-----focus on content & language integration, across subject
areas, emphasizes L2 development, based on students' academic & linguistic needs
Sheltered Instruction----Integrate language & content objectives into the same lesson, language
objectives are functionally linked to the CLD student's level of L2 proficiency, grade-level
modified curriculum, scaffolded instruction, visuals, cooperative learning, and guarded vocabulary
Student-centered emphasis on
communication and meaningful
acquisition knowledge
It does not subscribe to the behaviorist perspective
Encompasses constructivist language
instruction
Innate understanding/predetermined
capacity to learn language
Learning is socially constructed/natural
progression of communication
Examples: Reduced use of idioms, Manipulatives &
Realia, Simulations/big books, Heterogeneous Grouping
Cognitive Approach
Focuses on how individuals
process, store, and remember
new information and how
they acquire new skills
Learner-centered focus on explicit teaching of
learning strategies in communicative ways:
Metacognitive, Cognitive, & Social/Affective
CALLA: Is designed to enrich the language that CLD students can use
for academic communication................Developmentally appropriate LS,
Focus on CALP in L1 & L2, Prior knowledge, and Explicit instruction
Strategies: Cooperative learning,
Explicit LS instruction, & Maximizing
content & language objectives
Examples: KWL chart,
Questioning, Word
walls, & Outlines
Child-centered
Discovering
Recognizing
Conceiving
Judging
Reasoning
Reflecting
Methods
Long-Term Memory
Short-Term Memory
Working Memory
Meaningful &
relevant instruction
Scaffolded instruction
for language acquistion
Comprehensible input
for language acquisition
Language Experience
Approach
Helps develop initial
language and literacy.
Students' prior experience needs are used as
a bridge to new ideas and concepts. Learning
is based on the Cognitive-Social Model
Good to use with beginning level and
preliterate English language learners
Students learn that oral language
is related to reading and writting
Vocabulary and grammatical
structures are experienced in L1.
Inquiry Approach
Students investigate questions and
problems of personal interest.
Cognitive-Social Model of Learning
Learner-centered activities where students
construct understanding of ideas and relationships.
Consists of an inquiry cycle with student activities
Ask an answerable question or
identify a researchable problem
Develop a plan & take some form of action
Gather resources; analyze &
summarize the information
Draw conclusions & report findings
Reflect on the process
Balanced Reading Approach
Provides both phonics and whole
language according to student needs.
Instruction is tailored to individual
preference for initial reading
Classroom Activities: journal writing, teacher
read alouds, discussions, silent reading, and
student choice in reading materials