Question

A second language should be taught ----------

• A. through mother tongue and translation
• B. by considering learners background and talents
• C. with the help of grammar and rules of language
• D. using the target language as much as possible

Answer 1

Answer:

D. using the target language as much as possible

Second Language Acquisition Theories

• The Input Hypothesis (Stephen Krashen): This theory suggests that language acquisition occurs when learners are exposed to comprehensible input that is slightly beyond their current level of understanding (i+1).
• The Output Hypothesis (Merrill Swain): Swain argued that producing the target language (output) is also crucial for language learning. This forces learners to move from semantic processing to syntactic processing, helping them notice gaps in their knowledge.
• Interaction Hypothesis (Michael Long): This theory emphasizes the role of interaction and negotiation of meaning in language learning. When learners interact with others and have to clarify or rephrase, they receive more comprehensible input.

Effective Second Language Teaching Methodologies

• Communicative Language Teaching (CLT): This is a widely adopted approach that prioritizes communication and interaction in the target language. The goal is to develop communicative competence, which includes grammatical accuracy, sociolinguistic competence, discourse competence, and strategic competence.
• Immersion Programs: In these programs, students are taught subjects through the medium of the target language. This maximizes exposure and encourages the natural use of the language.
• Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT): Learners engage in meaningful tasks using the target language, with a focus on completing the task rather than solely on linguistic accuracy.

Key Principles for Maximizing Target Language Use

• Teacher Talk: Teachers should use the target language as much as possible, simplifying their language when necessary to ensure comprehension.
• Student Talk: Encouraging students to speak the target language through pair work, group activities, and class discussions is vital.
• Authentic Materials: Using real-world materials such as news articles, songs, and videos in the target language provides contextualized learning.
• Error Correction: While important, error correction should be done in a way that does not discourage learners from speaking. Feedback should be constructive and focused on facilitating communication.