Features and Characteristics of Direct Method of Teaching English B.Ed Notes
Back to: Pedagogy of English – Unit 3
According to Webster Dictionary,
“Direct method is a method of teaching a foreign language, especially modern language through conversation, discussion and reading, in the language itself, without the use of the pupil’s language.”
Direct method refers to the method of teaching English where it is taught directly using the target language. A teacher doesn’t use the mother tongue in the class and the students are not allowed to use it either. It is the opposite of the Translation Method.
Features Of Direct Method Of Teaching
Facilitates Understanding of English
Learners can learn English directly through what they hear or read. It established a direct connection between objects and English words which allows one to learn the language easily.
Establishes Command Over Language
Learners are encouraged to use English all the time which allows them to have a good command of the language.
Natural Method
It is also known as the natural method of learning English because students can naturally learn English just like their mother tongue.
Facilitates Acquisition of Vocabulary
Learners can acquire great vocabulary in English due to its constant use since the mother tongue is not involved in this teaching method.
Improves Fluency of speech
This method emphasizes aural-oral words and students are encouraged to think in English allowing them to speak fluently and confidently in English.
Focuses On Functional Grammar
This method focuses more on functional grammar rather than theoretical grammar.
No Use Of Mother Tongue
This method does not advocate the use of the mother tongue and relies solely on the use of the target language.
Champion writes,
“It is a method of teaching English directly. To teach English directly is to establish a direct association between experience and expression, between the English words, phrases, and its meaning.”
The direct teaching method is a reaction to the Grammar Translation Method. The learners are taught a language without the interference of any other language apart from the target language.
