The Total Physical Response Method was formed from the beliefs of the trace theory of learning which notes that memory is increased if it if stimulated or traced (Brown & Lee, 2015). Moreover, the Total Physical Response Method adopted aspects of child language acquisition which states children learning a language listen before they speak, additionally, that their listening is paired with a physical response, reaching, grabbing, moving, or looking.
Key Characteristics of the Total Physical Response Method:
-The language learning environment should be stress free and fun.
-Learners should do a great amount of listening and acting.
-Teacher gives instructions, without first language translation, that students follow.
-Teacher instructs students to "Stand up, jump, sit down, stand up, turn around, walk, stop." Students follows directions teacher give, and follow actions alongside the instructor.
-The students do not repeat directions, as they should understand and listen before attempting to speak.
-Spoken language is of more emphasis before written language.
-Students will begin to speak when they are ready.
Below is short video of American students, Kindergarten students aged 4-6, learning basic German through the Total Physical Response Method.
Key Characteristics of the Total Physical Response Method:
-The language learning environment should be stress free and fun.
-Learners should do a great amount of listening and acting.
-Teacher gives instructions, without first language translation, that students follow.
-Teacher instructs students to "Stand up, jump, sit down, stand up, turn around, walk, stop." Students follows directions teacher give, and follow actions alongside the instructor.
-The students do not repeat directions, as they should understand and listen before attempting to speak.
-Spoken language is of more emphasis before written language.
-Students will begin to speak when they are ready.
Below is short video of American students, Kindergarten students aged 4-6, learning basic German through the Total Physical Response Method.