ELT methods, and ways of coping with
diversity in the pupil group
Grammar translation method: Focus on * grammar and translation, reading and writing * learning
English as an intellectual exercise * L1 as the language of instruction * a deductive approach to
grammar * learning about the language rather than using it * silent, written work over books * a lot
of memorization, dictations, pattern drills and exercises .
Audio lingual method. Focus on * oral as well as written language * learning to use the
language, not about the language * language learning as a matter of learning habits *
lots of pattern drills * preventing pupils from making mistakes * inductive grammar *
modern everyday speech * teaching aids PRESENTATION, PRACTICE PRODUCTION
Communicative approach: Focus on * pupil activity * the use
of L2 * communicative competence (ling. competence +ling.
Performance ) * pair- and group work * choice and creativity *
individualisation/differentiation TASK BASED LEARNING.
Teacher needs to consider two main points.
View of learning, and view of the pupil.
Types of diversity: social (attitudes and feelings, exposure) individual
(personality, intelligence) learner beliefs learner preferences and strategies
motivation age ethnicity culture
Ways of dealing with diversity: Individualised teaching/learning (offer
individual tasks to learners of mixed ability) Differentiated
teaching/learning (offer different tasks to learners of mixed ability)
Adapted teaching/learning (offer to meet the needs of the individual
learner within a class setting)
Note an awareness of preferences in learning strategies, and MI theory.
Eclectic balanced approach is suggested as a good option. The pupils need to learn about language
(GTM), need to practice language (Audio lingual), need to communicate orally and written
(communicative approach), alearn more if the teaching is in English (direct Method).