1.

Write a blog post to present the most important aspects of the Direct Method which
can be used in a contemporary EFL classroom (500 words).
Have you ever seen a lesson using Direct Method of teaching? Maybe you are not sure if
this method works? Let me explain what it is and why it is worth using in your classroom.
Direct Method was presented as a response to Grammar Translation Method. It has many
different names; for example you can encounter such names as a natural method, phonetical
method, reform method and anti-grammatical method. Last two are paying attention to
grammar translation method which was considered as not effective and inadequate. It did not
give enough development of speaking and listening which are considered as active skills.
Founders of this methods wanted to use as much target language as it is possible, but also use
as little grammar explanation as they can. That is why context is the key to learn a second
language using Direct Method.
In this method, we use only native language to present the meaning and concept. There
should be no use of the mother tongue. It is essential to teach students to think in the target
language, not their first one, to avoid translation and making mistakes. Because grammar
explanations are not used in this method, everything should be presented and demonstrated.
This gives students the opportunity to learn new language spontaneously and naturally, like
children learn their mother tongue. Nobody explains young children what tenses they have to
use. They simply hear, imitate and connect language with everyday situations. The same
should happen in a classroom where Direct Method is used.
Because of no use of grammar rules, students have to induce grammar. It means that a
teacher has to give many examples and appropriate context, and students need to figure out
the meaning of it. It requires much from a teacher because he has to prepare situations and
contexts and be ready to extend it if students are not able to understand him. Translation is
forbidden, only demonstration is allowed!
What is more, Direct Method emphasizes phonetics and sounds. In speech it is very
important to pronounce words correctly, so there is no misunderstanding. In addition, simple
sentences should be used by students. Everyday speech is not complicated and formal; they
should know how to communicate easily. The same goes with vocabulary. Only basic, useful
vocabulary should be taught. Students do not need C1 or C2 level vocabulary for everyday

communication. It is even better when teaching vocabulary is topical. It means that the
syllabus should put emphasis on topics and situations rather than structures.
Another essential thing about this method is self-correction. They need to learn to correct
themselves and try to find out what the correct form of the language is. Self-correction gives
them independence and autonomy. They learn through their own mistakes.
Overall, you can see that it sounds as a perfect way to teach a second language.
Everything should go smoothly and easily if all aspects of Direct Method are included. Of
course, it is not a perfect way of learning a language for everyone. If you want to see how
such lessons look like, google Direct Method videos and lesson plans. I hope it was useful!