Direct Method Essay

Methods and approaches are essential to accomplish an effective second language teaching. There are several methods and approaches of teaching language to students who are learning it for the first time. Among those methods and approaches grammar translation method, direct method and audio-lingual method are the most popular. Yet each of them has their own advantages and disadvantages. Grammar translation method, also known as classical method, focuses on grammar rules and accuracy. It is one of the most popular traditional teaching methods. Grammar rules are explained theoretically and the first language is mostly used. Students learn grammar rules and then apply those rules by translating sentences between the second and the first language. It is very important to follow the rules and practice through the use of examples. Readings in the target language are directly translated and then discussed in the native language. The teacher is always in control and

This method is similar to direct method and the second language is used in the class. The emphasis is not on the understanding of words but somewhat on the acquisition of structures and patterns in common every dialogue. Drills are used to teach those structural patterns. Also set phrases are memorized with a focus on intonation. Everything is memorized in form and students practice the set phrases until they can use it spontaneously. Hence students have little or no control on their own output. Likewise the direct method, grammar is taught inductively and vocabulary is taught in the context of the dialogue. Audio-visual aids are used and focuses on the correct pronunciation. It is quick to learn but still mistakes are not allowed. The general goals of this method are to flourish the learners’ listening skill and pronunciation, and the ability of speaking like a native speaker without stopping to