Silent Way

Question 1

Silent Way
Background

Answer 1

• The Silent Way is based on the belief that students should learn independently of the teacher.
• It is proposed that students would learn better if they developed personal responsibility for their own learning.
• Thus, the teacher remains silent for much of the lesson.
• This approach alone is rarely used because it is not practical within the classroom, and students need and desire more teacher input.

Question 2

Silent Way
Strategy

Answer 2

1. The teacher introduces a discrete sound or structure by pointing at Silent Way charts or by using Cuisinare rods to demonstrate a structure or grammar point.
2. Students then figure out what they are learning and reproduce the sound or structure.
3. Between activities or sessions, students may ask questions of the teacher.
4. The teacher then introduces another discrete sound or structure in the same manner.
5. Students again figure out the meaning and reproduce the sound or structure.
6. As time goes on, students are ideally able to combine discrete sounds and structures to create longer strings of language.

Question 3

Silent Way
Strengths

Answer 3

• Students are in an environment that encourages independence.

Question 4

Silent Way
Weaknesses

Answer 4

• Some students may need more teacher input than what is provided through this method.
• Language is not learned as a whole nor is it authentic.
• Teachers must have access to materials and to the system.