"Babies don't learn by memorizing lists;why should children or adults?"

Total Physical Response(TPR)

What is TPR?

TPR is an approach to teaching a second language, based on listening linked to physical activities which are designed to reinforce comprehension.

Total Physical Response(TPR)

INTRODUCTION

Total Physical Response (TPR) is a method developed by Dr. James J. Asher to aid learning second languages.

The method relies on the assumption that when learning a second or additional language, that language is internalized through a process of code-breaking similar to first language development

Students respond to commands that require physical movement. TPR is primarily intended for ESL teacher, although the method is used in teaching other languages as well.

Learning needed to become more enjoyable and less stressful

LEARNING HYPOTHESES1. An innate bio-program exists for

language learning that defines an optimal path for 1st and 2nd language development

Brain lateralization defines different learning functions in the left and right brain hemispheres

Stress is viewed as affective filter – the lower the stress, the greater the learning

TPR & The Natural Order1. Children develop listening competence

before they develop the ability to speak. At early stages of 1st language acquisition, they can understand complex utterances that they cannot spontaneously produce or imitate.

2. Children’s ability in listening comprehension is acquired because children are required to respond physically to spoken language in the form of parental commands.

3. Once a foundation in listening comprehension is established, speech evolves naturally and effortlessly.

Key Features of TPR

Key Features of TPR

Total Physical Response(TPR)What is the connection to the

classroom?  TPR is not always dancing and singing songs!

Generally, we refer to body movement with instruction to engage learners.

Students learn by identifying a certain key point to some action.

TPR can be used for all curriculum, literacy, science, math, and so on.

Total Physical Response(TPR)Who benefits most from TPR?TPR seems to work effectively for children and adults. There is

no age barrier. The only setback is that if the language training starts after puberty, the probability is almost certain that one will have at least some accent in speaking the second language, no matter how many years one lives in the foreign country. http://www.tprsource.com/asher.htm

English speaking students who have little academic reinforcement at home.

Total Physical Response(TPR)Who benefits most (cont . . .)Struggling studentsTeachers are noticing growth in students learning,

and boosting the academic levels in their classrooms.

Common / Typical Techniques

Total Physical Response (TPR) Example of Activity

This is an example of an effective TPR activity that students can perform at their seats. Each student has a kit such as the interior of a kitchen. Then you say in the target language, "Put the man in front of the sink.“ With your play board displayed so that it is clearly visible to the students, you place the man in the kitchen of your kit and your students follow by performing the same action in their kits.

Total Physical Response (TPR) 50 Strategies for Teaching English Language

Learners,

Chapter 11 – Integrating Movement into Language Acquisition

“In first-language learners, children acquire receptive language before they attempt to speak, they develop understanding through moving their bodies and they are not forced to speak until they are ready”

Total Physical Response (TPR)

Step by Step (steps for teaching TPR lesson)

1. Choose physical vocabulary,

- ex. Stand up, show me the door, (language used in the classroom)

2. Introduce vocabulary gradually

- Start with 3 & randomly use

3. Drop the physical modeling

4. Add additional commands

Total Physical Response (TPR) Step by Step (steps for teaching TPR lesson)

5. Add additional responses

-Find new ways for students to display their

understanding of vocabulary, ex. draw picture

6. Play games for additional practice

- only when students gain confidence

7. Assess student progress & understanding

(easy to visually assess, make a checklist)

Learner Roles

Teacher’s Roles

Advantages of TPRFun and Easy: Students enjoy activity! Simple TPR activities do not require a great deal of preparation on the part

of the teacher. TPR is inclusive and works well a class with mixed ability levels. Good for kinesthetic learners who need to be active in class. Good tool for building vocabulary. Actions help build connections in the brain. Helps learners achieve fluency faster by immersing learners in activities

that involve them in situational language use.Good instructional practice for ESL’s in their silent period. Works well for child and adult learners.

Disadvantages of TPRMost useful for beginners. Preparation becomes an issue for teachers at higher levels. Students are not generally given the opportunity to express

their own thought in a creative manner. It is easy to over use TPR and begin to bore students. May limit teachers in term of scope of language that can be

addressed. Can be a major challenge for shy students.Use of TPR in teaching abstract language – activities can be

limited to the directly obvious, visible and physically “doable”