Grammar Translation Method

DEFINITION OF GTM

• a  method of foreign or second language teaching which makes use of translation and grammar study as the main teaching and learning activities
• one of the most traditional methods
• was called Classical Method
• used to teach “modern” languages such as French, German, and English

Purposes Of gtm

• Helps students read and appreciate foreign language literature
• Become more familiar with the grammar of their native language
• Helps students grow intellectually

Background

·         grammatical rules + vocabulary =  TRANSLATION

·         TYPICAL LESSON = grammatical rules + vocabulary + translation

Characteristics

• Reading and writing are the major focus
• Vocabulary selection is based solely on the reading texts used, and words are taught through bilingual word lists, dictionary study, and memorization.
• The sentence is the basic unit of teaching and language practice. Much of the lesson is devoted to translating sentences into and out of the target language.

Principles of gtm

• To read literature written in the target language.
• The roles of the teacher and the students are very traditional.
• Students are taught to translate from one language to another.
• Students study grammar deductively. They memorize native-language equivalents for target-language vocabulary words.
• Literary language is considered superior ; culture is viewed as consisting of literature and the fine arts
• Vocabulary and grammar are emphasized; reading and writing are the primary skills
• Student’s  native language is used
• Written tests are used (translation and applying grammar rules)
• Having students get the correct answer is very important. If they do not know the answer or make errors, the teacher does her part.

Method

• Use of mother tongue
• Vocabulary items are taught in the form of word lists
• Elaborate explanations of grammar
• Focus on the morphology and syntax
• Reading of difficult texts early in the course
• Practice focuses on exercises translating sentences or texts from mother tongue to the target language and vice versa

Techniques of gtm

• Translation of a literary passage
• Reading comprehension questions
• Antonyms/ synonyms
• Cognates
• Deductive application of rule
• Fill-in-the-blanks
• Memorization
• Use words in sentences
• Composition

Advantages

• Translation is the easiest and shortest way of explaining meaning of words and phrases.
• Learners have no difficulties to understand the lesson as it is carried out in the mother tongue.
• It is a labor-saving method as the teacher carries out everything in the mother tongue.

Criticism

• “teaching about the language” , not “teaching the language”
• Do not take into account speaking and listening.
• Students lack an active role in the classroom.
• Very little attention is paid to communication and content.
• Translation is sometimes misleading.

§  It can affect learners’ motivation which can lead to frustration, boredom, and indiscipline.

Source:

---Richards, J. C., & Schmidt, R. (2002). Longman Dictionary of Language Teaching and Applied Linguistics. Pearson Education Limited. pp.231

Kathlyn Joy B. Galang

MAEd English of AUF