Maximilian Berlitz used naturalistic approaches to language learning to claim that additional language learning needs to be more like learning your first language (Brown & Lee, 2015). In the Direct Method it is important to use lots of oral interaction, not to use translation between first and second languages, and not to spend time analyzing grammar.
Key Characteristics of the Direct Method:
-Teaching should only occur in targeted language, as students need to learn how to think in the target language.
-The goal of instruction is to be able to communicate.
-Small groups are needed when learning oral communication and listening skills.
-Modelling and practice is essential.
-Useful, common vocabulary should be learned.
-Grammar should not be a main focus. (Brown & Lee, 2015).
-No translation is allowed (Laresen-Freeman, 2004).
A look into a classroom using the Direct Method...
-Instruction is in target language using demonstrations and visual aids instead of explanations or translating (Laresen-Freeman, 2004).
-Students ask questions when needing clarification.
-Pronunciation is a focus from the beginning of instruction.
-Students play an active role in learning language. Self-correction is key in order to fully learn language.
-Lessons may use conversational structures, possibly real world situations.
-Writing is used right away in instruction.
Below is a video of the Direct Method.
Key Characteristics of the Direct Method:
-Teaching should only occur in targeted language, as students need to learn how to think in the target language.
-The goal of instruction is to be able to communicate.
-Small groups are needed when learning oral communication and listening skills.
-Modelling and practice is essential.
-Useful, common vocabulary should be learned.
-Grammar should not be a main focus. (Brown & Lee, 2015).
-No translation is allowed (Laresen-Freeman, 2004).
A look into a classroom using the Direct Method...
-Instruction is in target language using demonstrations and visual aids instead of explanations or translating (Laresen-Freeman, 2004).
-Students ask questions when needing clarification.
-Pronunciation is a focus from the beginning of instruction.
-Students play an active role in learning language. Self-correction is key in order to fully learn language.
-Lessons may use conversational structures, possibly real world situations.
-Writing is used right away in instruction.
Below is a video of the Direct Method.