Benefits

Two types of integrated-skill instruction are content-based language instruction and task-based
instruction. The first of these emphasizes learning content through language, while the second stresses
doing tasks that require communicative language use.

INTEGRATING THE LANGUAGE SKILLS

In order to integrate the language skills in ESL/EFL instruction, teachers should consider taking these
steps:

* Learn more about the various ways to integrate language skills in the classroom (e.g., content-based,
task-based, or a combination).

* Reflect on their current approach and evaluate the extent to which the skills are integrated.

* Choose instructional materials, textbooks, and technologies that promote the integration of listening,
reading, speaking, and writing, as well as the associated skills of syntax, vocabulary, and so on.

* Even if a given course is labeled according to just one skill, remember that it is possible to integrate
the other language skills through appropriate tasks.

* Teach language learning strategies and emphasize that a given strategy can often enhance
performance in multiple skills.

Teachers often work with materials in which skills and grammar are separated, or are not
integrated in the way that will help students. Even if they work with mandatory course books,
teachers can make modifications in order to meet their students’ learning needs.

Integrating grammar and skills teaching involves some degree of course book adaptation.
Teachers often work with materials in which skills and grammar are separated, or are not
integrated in the way that will help students. Even if they work with mandatory course books,
teachers can make modifications in order to meet their students’ learning needs. They can apply
the SARS strategy:
S–upplement: the unit or lesson, add grammar activities when and where needed;
A-dapt: change the focus of an activity /task in the book;
R–eject: skip parts /activities that are not needed or are not helping learners;
S-ubstitute: replace activities in the book with different tasks, more suitable for their students.

QUIZ:

1. In the integrated skills approach, the focus of instruction is authentic communication.

2. In the the language-based approach, the language itself is the focus of instruction
(language for language's sake).
3. Skills are often segregated because many teachers believe it is impossible to focus on
grammar and skills at the same time.
4. In the segregated skills approach, teachers teach one skill at a time, they do not
integrate skills.
5. In a TBL lesson, several skills can be practiced at once, such as speaking, reading and
listening.
6. Learning strategies are not associated with only one specific language skill.
7. When grammar teaching and skills teaching are integrated, it is easier to encourage
students to use language in context.
8. Immersion in integrated classroom instruction leads to the development of language
fluency.
9. The most effective way to integrate grammar into skills teaching is to teach it at the point
of need.