Basics of Teaching Flashcards

Which classroom arrangement best supports student-centered learning and group discussion?

Answer: U-shape or circle seating

U-shape or circle arrangements allow all students to see each other, facilitating discussion and collaboration.

What is the primary purpose of a 'warmer' activity at the start of a TEFL lesson?

Answer: To engage students and activate prior knowledge

Warmers energize the class and connect new content to what students already know, easing them into the lesson.

A student repeatedly makes the same grammar error even after correction. Which approach is most effective long-term?

Answer: Provide focused practice targeting that specific structure

Targeted practice helps learners internalize the correct form through repeated, meaningful use.

Which term describes the natural, subconscious process by which people develop language through meaningful exposure?

Answer: Acquisition

Krashen's acquisition hypothesis distinguishes subconscious acquisition (through input) from conscious learning (through study).

When teaching vocabulary, which technique uses a visual organizer showing word relationships, synonyms, and examples?

Answer: Word map / semantic map

Word maps help students connect new vocabulary to related concepts and prior knowledge visually.

What does 'TTT' stand for in TEFL lesson analysis, and why is reducing it often recommended?

Answer: Teacher Talking Time — limits student practice opportunities

High Teacher Talking Time reduces the amount of English students produce, limiting their practice.

Which concept refers to the gap between what a learner can do independently and what they can do with teacher support?

Answer: Zone of Proximal Development

Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) identifies the learning space where teacher guidance is most valuable.