Direct MethodDirect MethodDirect MethodDirect MethodJerry CrosbyJerry Crosby

September 18, 2006September 18, 2006

EDU-540.005EDU-540.005

Methods and Materials: Foreign Methods and Materials: Foreign LanguageLanguage

Historical Context

• Naturalistic approach

• Founder Maximilian Berlitz

• Roots in the Series Method

• SLA like native language acquisition– Details

Principles of the Direct Method

1. Classroom instruction2. Vocabulary and sentences3. Oral communication4. Grammar and punctuation5. Listening comprehension

Demonstration

• Topic: Driving in the Spanish speaking world

• Major objectives– Learn the meanings of street signs in the

Spanish speaking world, and other important vocabulary i.e. parts of an automobile and shapes.

• Language level: Intermediate

• Grade Level: 9-10th grade

• Introductory activity: Guessing game with unknown road signs

• Listen and repeat exercise with the street road signs

• Around the World game

Demonstration (cont.)

Evaluation

• What have the students learned?• How will they show that what they

have learned?– Informal Assessment: Matching

worksheet

Conclusion

• Well-rounded approach to SLA• Limitations of the Direct Method• The future and present of the

Direct Method– Audiolingual method– Berlitz language schools

• Personal Opinion