Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) PDF

EED10303 Identify, define and explain the key features of CLT. Propose strategies on how to apply CLT in classrooms based on topics given. Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) is an approach to language teaching that emphasizes interaction and communication as both the means and the ultimate g...

EED10303 Identify, define and explain the key features of CLT. Propose strategies on how to apply CLT in classrooms based on topics given. Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) is an approach to language teaching that emphasizes interaction and communication as both the means and the ultimate goal of learning a language. This method focuses on the ability to communicate the meaning, rather than just focusing on the grammatical accuracy and sentence structure.  The primary goal is to enable students to communicate effectively and appropriately in various real-life situations. Emphasis is placed on fluency and comprehensibility rather than on grammatical correctness alone.  Lessons are designed around tasks that encourage communication, such as problem-solving activities, role plays, and discussions. Tasks are often based on real-world scenarios to make the learning more relevant and engaging.  Students are actively involved in the learning process, taking responsibility for their learning. Teachers act as facilitators or guides rather than as the central source of knowledge.  Activities often integrate multiple language skills (listening, speaking, Real-life materials reading, writing) such as newspapers, rather than isolating advertisements, and them. recordings are used This mirrors real-life to expose students communication, to the language as it where skills are used is actually used. simultaneously. Authentic materials help students understand cultural contexts and develop pragmatic skills.  Students are encouraged to understand and convey meanings rather than merely focusing on grammatical forms. Activities often include interpreting meaning from context, inferring, and negotiating meaning in interactions.  Activities where students must Students work together in small communicate with each other to fill in groups or pairs to complete tasks. missing information. Promotes cooperative learning and Encourages meaningful interaction. communication and use of the target language. Students act out roles in specific Interactive games that require situations to practice language use in communication to solve puzzles or context. complete tasks. Helps build confidence and fluency in Makes learning fun and lowers the real-world interactions. affective filter.  Students are given problems to Practice through scripted and solve using the target language. unscripted dialogues. Encourages critical thinking and Develops both listening and application of language skills. speaking skills in a conversational context. 1. Enhanced Communication Skills: Focuses on practical use of language, improving students' ability to communicate in real-life situations. 2. Motivation: Engaging and relevant tasks increase student motivation and interest in learning. 3. Cultural Awareness: Use of authentic materials exposes students to cultural nuances and practical language use. 4. Interactive Learning: Promotes student interaction and collaboration, which can improve language retention and confidence. 1. Classroom Management: Group work and interactive activities can be challenging to manage and may lead to off-task behavior. 2. Assessment: Traditional tests may not effectively measure communicative competence; alternative assessment methods like portfolios or performance- based assessments are needed. 3. Teacher Training: Requires teachers to be skilled in facilitating communication and creating interactive lesson plans, which may require additional training.  Communicative Language Teaching represents a shift from traditional language teaching methods, emphasizing meaningful communication and practical language use. By integrating real-life materials, promoting interaction, and focusing on the ability to convey meaning, CLT aims to equip students with the skills necessary to communicate effectively in diverse situations. While it presents some challenges, its benefits in fostering communicative competence and engaging students make it a valuable approach in modern language education.  Complete the quiz questions. Individual task.  Work in groups. Propose activities based on principles of CLT for an ESL classroom. Share with your class.