Methods

What is an ELT Method?

An ELT method is a systematic approach to teaching English as a foreign language (EFL) or second language (ESL). It is a set of principles and practices that guide teachers in their planning, delivery, and assessment of instruction. ELT methods vary in their focus, content, and activities, but they all share the goal of helping students acquire the knowledge and skills they need to use English effectively.

Five Major ELT Methods

There are many different ELT methods, but five of the most widely used are:

• Grammar translation method (GTM): GTM is a traditional method that focuses on teaching the rules of grammar and vocabulary in isolation from communicative use. This is done by the teacher providing students with rules and examples of grammar and vocabulary, and then having students practice using the rules and examples in isolated exercises. GTM is based on the idea that students learn best when they are given clear and concise instructions and when they are given opportunities to practice what they have learned. GTM classrooms are typically teacher-centered, with teachers providing most of the instruction. GTM has been shown to be effective in helping students develop grammar and vocabulary knowledge, but it has been criticized for not being effective in helping students develop communicative competence.

• Direct method: The direct method is a method that focuses on teaching students the rules of grammar and vocabulary through the use of the target language only. This is done by the teacher providing students with examples of grammar and vocabulary in the target language, and then having students practice using the grammar and vocabulary in communicative activities. The direct method is based on the idea that students learn best when they are immersed in the target language and when they are given opportunities to use the language for real-world purposes. Direct method classrooms are typically student-centered, with students working together to practice using the target language. The direct method has been shown to be effective in helping students develop communicative competence, but it has been criticized for being difficult to implement and for not being effective in teaching students grammar and vocabulary knowledge.

• Communicative language teaching (CLT): CLT is a method that focuses on teaching students how to use English in real-world communication situations. This is done by providing students with opportunities to practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing in English. CLT is based on the idea that language is acquired through use, and that students learn best when they are given opportunities to use the language in meaningful contexts. CLT classrooms are typically student-centered, with teachers acting as facilitators rather than as dispensers of information. Students are encouraged to interact with each other and with the teacher in order to practice using the language. CLT has been shown to be effective in helping students develop communicative competence, but it has been criticized for being difficult to implement and for not being effective in teaching students grammar and vocabulary knowledge.

• Task-based learning (TBL): TBL is a method that focuses on teaching students how to complete tasks that require them to use English. This is done by giving students a task to complete, such as writing a report or giving a presentation, and then providing them with the resources they need to complete the task. TBL is based on the idea that students learn best when they are given a clear goal and when they are given the opportunity to use the language in order to achieve that goal. TBL classrooms are typically project-based, with students working together to complete a variety of tasks. TBL has been shown to be effective in helping students develop communicative competence, as well as in developing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

• Content-based instruction (CBI): CBI is a method that focuses on teaching students academic content in English. This is done by integrating English language instruction with the teaching of academic content, such as science or history. CBI is based on the idea that students learn best when they are learning about topics that are relevant to them and that they are interested in. CBI classrooms are typically subject-matter-based, with students learning about a particular topic in English. CBI has been shown to be effective in helping students develop academic proficiency in English, as well as in developing their knowledge of academic content.

Conclusion

ELT methods are constantly evolving, and there is no one "best" method for teaching English. The best method for a particular student or group of students will depend on a variety of factors, such as the students' age, level of proficiency, and learning style. However, all ELT methods share the goal of helping students acquire the knowledge and skills they need to use English effectively.

Questions

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of each of the five ELT methods discussed in this paper?

• How can teachers choose the best ELT method for their students?

• How can teachers integrate different ELT methods?