MD/WNJA-Methods of English language teaching

obligatory courses

The main aim of the course is to prepare students to work as English teachers in the kindergarten and primary school. During the course students will learn about various ELT methods, both conventional and non-conventional.

While learning about each method, they will get acquainted with various language theories and learning/teaching theories ,

Classroom

The course aims to teach students about the wide spectrum of ELT methods, both conventional and non-conventional so that they would be able to select methods and techniques which are the most appropriate for the taught group.Within each method students learn about its theoretical background, as far as the language and learning/teaching is concerned. They also learn about teaching receptive and productive skills within each method, as well as teaching vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation.

The course covers following topics:

- the beginning of foreign language teaching (J.A. Komensky);

- conventional methods: Grammar Translation Method, Direct Method, Audiolingual Method;

- cognitive approach in foreign language teaching (N.Chomsky);

- humanistic approach in foreign language teaching,

- selected non-conventional methods: Total Physical Response, Natural Approach, Suggestopedia, The Silent Way;

- communicative approach in contemporary ELT;

- the recent development of neurosciences vice the process of foreign languages learning/teaching.

Richards, J.C., Rodgers, T.S. (2005) Approaches and Methods in Language Teaching; Cambridge University Press.

Harmer, J. (2008) The Practice of English Language Teaching: Pearson Longman.

Scrivener, J. (2010) Learning Teaching: Macmillan Books for Teachers

Knowledge

On completing the course the student:

- possesses the knowledge about both conventional and non-conventional methods of ELT;

- possesses the basic knowledge about the theory of language and the theory of learning/teaching within each method;

- knows how to implement the discussed methods in particular language groups.

Abilities

On completing the course the student:

- evaluates the usefulness of given method in the teaching situation;

- is able to select the elements of particular methods for given groups;

- explains the differences in various approaches and methods while teaching receptive and productive skills;

- explains differences in various approaches and methods while teaching vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation.

Social competences:

On completing the course the student:

- shares her/his knowledge and reflections about various methods of ELT with other teachers;

- analyses and critically assesses the possibilities of implementing the methods in various language groups.

Forms of work:

lecture, discussion, self-work

Requirements:

1. Systematic reading of recommended literature.

2. Active participation in discussions during the classes.

3. Attending the classes - max. 2 absences allowed.

4. Quiz at the end of the semester.