Teaching Grammar Communicatively

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Review: What does CLT mean? We teach lessons that are student-centered. We create opportunities to use English actively. We create context for language use. We use scaffolding techniques to help students
understand.

We help students reach beyond their comfort zone-to stretch their abilities and sometimes make mistakes.

We speak English as much as possible.

Doesnt CLT mean that we shouldnt teach grammar?

No! Grammar and CLT can go hand-in-hand. We
can teach grammar effectively using a commonsense communicative framework.

How do students learn grammar?

Input Output Quantity Quality

Input Output

Teaching grammar is like teaching someone to play tennis.

QuickTime an d a TIFF (Uncompressed) decompressor are need ed to see this picture .

QuickTime and a TIFF (Un compressed) decompressor are neede d to see this picture.

To teach grammar well, we have to

Get students to notice the new grammar and how it
works. (Input)

Give students lots of high-quality practice until they

can use the grammar well. (Output)

A good grammar lesson is like a good meal.

Introduction of the new grammar

Games (not too many)

Practice activities (lots of them!)

We need to keep the parts of the meal in good proportion.

If were not careful, the pieces can get out of proportion. Our lessons can be unbalanced.

Effective sequence for teaching grammar:

1.Introduce the new grammar:

Show the meaning and use of the form. Keep explanations simple, clear, and brief.

2.Practice the new grammar:

Group guided practice as a class Guided practice activities Less guided practice activities

Independent practice activities

(Games)

Introducing a new grammar point.

When you explain grammar in English, it

should not be just a translation of what you would say in your native language.

Use less metalanguage. Show, dont just tell.

Dont explain too much at one time.

Cognitive overload! L

Many ways to introduce grammar

Listen and do, act it out, mime, show the

meaning.

Use pictures or real objects.

Use dialogs, tell stories, or talk about an

imaginary situation.

Explain the rule simply, clearly, and briefly.

Dont get carried away!

Ways to practice grammar

Use plenty of guided practice.

Emphasize productive practice.

Create context. Practice makes perfect!

In summary

To teach grammar well, we need to make students

notice the grammar and practice it well.

Keep your grammar meal in proportion:

Picture from Fun with Grammar by Suzanne Woodward. Prentice Hall, 1996.