THE GRAMMAR TRANSLATION METHOD
The
classical
method
The
Prussian
Method
GOALS:
 To be able to read in the target language
 To be able to translate the literature in the native language
 To develop students’ mind
ROLE OF THE TEACHER:
 Supreme authority
 Provider of the correct form
SKILLS STRESSED:
 Reading
 Writing
KEY FEATURES:
 Foreign language study is seen as a mental discipline, a form of
intellectual development
 Translation from and in the target language
 Native language is used as language of instruction
 Deductive application of grammar rules
 Vocabulary is introduced through bilingual vocabulary lists
 Direct vocabulary instruction was included only when a word
illustrated a grammatical rule
 The method is based on the written word
CRITICISM:
 Non-communicative nature of the language used
 Translation itself is an academic exercise
 An over focus on grammar was to learn about the target language,
rather than to learn it
 Can be boring to many learners
IMPACT ON FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNING:
 Had a remarkable success over the years
 Certain types of learners (who need the security of the mother
tongue) responded positively
 It gives the learners a set of clear objectives and a clear sense of
achievement