Grammar-based Approaches

Question 1

Grammar-based Approaches
background

Answer 1

Grammar-based approaches to language learning have been used since ancient times. The most well known of historical grammar-based approaches is the grammar-translation method in which students are presented a text and are asked to translate the text word for word. While translating, students’ attention is brought to the appropriate grammar points to be taught. Although the grammar-translation method has fallen out of favor mainly because of its inability to foster communicative ability, other types of grammar-based approaches are still in common use. What most contemporary uses of grammar- based teaching have in common is the use of grammatical structures to guide the syllabus or lesson. Unlike earlier grammar-based approaches, more contemporary approaches, while presenting and using grammar points as a guiding force, enlarge on the grammar point to make the syllabus or lesson more communicative and authentic.

Question 2

Grammar-based approaches
Strategy

Answer 2

1. The teacher presents the grammatical structure or rule.
2. Students practice of the structure.
3. Students use the structure in a holistic, authentic manner (in contemporary grammar-based approaches).

Question 3

Grammar-based approaches
Strengths

Answer 3

• Students who are analytical learners may need to know the grammar to make sense of a language.
• Students who have learned other languages through grammar-based approaches may find it easier to learn through this approach.
• Students, especially older ones, may need to know some grammar to reproduce the language correctly.

Question 4

Grammar-based approaches
Weaknesses

Answer 4

If grammar isn’t taught as part of a whole, students may find that they know the grammar rules but not how to use the language. It must be emphasized to students that grammar is a tool to help learn a language, not a means to an end.
Students may focus so much on grammar that they don’t learn the other aspects of language.
Students who are more holistic learners may find grammar lessons boring or even confusing.