Natural Approach (Language Learning)
Natural Approach (Language Learning)
The Natural Approach is a language learning methodology created by Stephen Krashen and Tracy Terrell that stresses the importance of natural communication and understanding instead of the conventional grammar instruction. Its main approach is the acquisition of language through meaningful interactions and exposure to comprehensible input which makes it important for is the development of the skills and fluency of the genuine language.
What are the key principles of the Natural Approach?
The The Natural Approach is based on two fundamental beliefs: the main focus on communication and the significant role of comprehensible input. It gets students involved in real-life conversations that are meaningful to them without worrying about their errors (if any) and in that way, they get to learn the languages as native speakers do. A case in point is when a teacher uses pictures and hand signals to teach students the meaning of new words against the backdrop of the sentence.
How does the Natural Approach differ from traditional language teaching methods?
Distinct from conventional methods that mainly deal with the theory of grammar and memory work, the Natural Approach is primarily grounded in interaction through real-life situations involving language exposure. This technique cuts down on a student's fear by permitting them to study at their rate, shifting the emphasis on comprehension from speaking. A good example is a standard method that would focus on repeated verb forms, while the Natural Approach would employ a story to depict the usage of the same verbs in action.
What role does input play in the Natural Approach?
Input is the principal aspect of the Natural Approach; it highlights the importance of the exposure to language that is a little above the student` s current level of understanding (i+1). This helps the learners to displace the new vocabulary and structures without effort. For instance, a learner who comprehends simple sentences, the hearing of slightly more parallel sentences with different structures, or the readng of them, according to that, will help in the language development effectively.
What are some practical applications of the Natural Approach in the classroom?
Simulating real-life situations like role playing, narrating stories, and playing interactive games which promote communication among the participants can be the most important immersive activities through which the Natural Approach can be used in the classroom. Additionally, a teacher might use real objects like songs, videos, and books to make the language input rich. For instance, the students could listen to a story and afterwards have a discussion about it in pairs; this way they will use the new vocabulary in the right context and at the same time they will reinforce their comprehension.