THE AUDIO-LINGUAL METHOD OF TEACHING ENGLISH

Introduction
Originated from the Behaviourist theory of learning languages Also known as the Army Method Popularised by need to learn basic skills in foreign languages during world war 2 Focuses on repetition drills

Language focus
Similar to the earlier Direct method Teaches the language directly Doesnt focus on teaching vocabulary Students are drilled in the use of grammar

There are 4 parts to the Audio Lingual Method

Repetition Inflection Replacement Restatement

Repetition
The students repeat what the teacher says: Teacher : I want to buy some fruit Students : I want to buy some fruit The students copy the teacher wors for word

Innection
The teacher says a word or sentences, the students change the form Teacher : I want to buy some fruit Students: I wanted to buy some fruit

Replacement
The teacher says a sentences and the students replace a word in the sentence Teacher : I want to buy some bananas Students : I want to buy some apples

Restatement
The teacher says sentences and the students rephrase the sentences Teacher : Tell me to speak louder ! Students : Speak louder !

Lesson example
Teacher : Theres a pen in my bag Student : Theres a pen in my bag Teacher : Pencil Student : Theres a pencil in my bag Teacher : Book Student : Theres a book in my bag Teacher : on the desk

Present day use

This method has been scientifically discredited It is still sometimes used in ESL classroom It can be beneficial, but should be used in conjuction with other methods