TEFL Language Teaching Methods — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) approach?
- An approach emphasizing interaction and real communication as the means and goal of language learning (Correct answer)
- Memorizing grammar rules only
- Translating texts word by word
- Listening to recordings only
Correct answer: An approach emphasizing interaction and real communication as the means and goal of language learning
CLT focuses on developing communicative competence through meaningful interaction and authentic language use.
Question 2: What is the difference between ESL and EFL?
- ESL is English in an English-speaking country; EFL is English in a non-English-speaking country (Correct answer)
- They are identical
- ESL is easier than EFL
- EFL requires certification but ESL does not
Correct answer: ESL is English in an English-speaking country; EFL is English in a non-English-speaking country
ESL (English as a Second Language) is taught where English is the primary language, while EFL (English as a Foreign Language) is taught where another language dominates.
Question 3: What is Total Physical Response (TPR)?
- A method linking language learning to physical movement and actions (Correct answer)
- Teaching only through textbooks
- A fitness program for teachers
- Testing physical abilities
Correct answer: A method linking language learning to physical movement and actions
TPR connects language learning with physical actions, making it especially effective for beginners and young learners.
Question 4: What is scaffolding in language teaching?
- Providing temporary support structures that help learners accomplish tasks beyond their current ability (Correct answer)
- Building physical classroom structures
- Grading papers
- Organizing textbooks
Correct answer: Providing temporary support structures that help learners accomplish tasks beyond their current ability
Scaffolding gradually reduces support as the learner gains independence, much like physical scaffolding is removed as a building becomes self-supporting.
Question 5: What are the four language skills?
- Listening, speaking, reading, and writing (Correct answer)
- Grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, spelling
- Translation, memorization, repetition, testing
- Phonics, fluency, comprehension, expression
Correct answer: Listening, speaking, reading, and writing
The four core language skills are divided into receptive (listening, reading) and productive (speaking, writing) skills.
Question 6: What is the Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) approach?
- An approach where learners complete meaningful tasks that require communication in the target language (Correct answer)
- Teaching only grammar rules
- Assigning homework only
- Repeating phrases after the teacher
Correct answer: An approach where learners complete meaningful tasks that require communication in the target language
TBLT uses tasks as the central unit of planning and instruction, with language being learned through completing meaningful activities.
TEFL Language Teaching Methods
What is the Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) approach?