Direct method

Maximilian D. Berlitz,1852-1921 Rhode Island, USA

Methodology

• Show• Say• Try• Mould• Repeat

Main characteristics

• Target Language

• Language and Not about the language

• Useful ‘everyday' language

Materials • Realia

• Pictures

• Flash cards

• Demonstrations

Techniques

• Reading aloud

• Question and answer exercise

• Self-correction

• Conversation exercise

The “never” principles• Never translate: demonstrate

• Never explain: act

• Never make a speech: ask questions

• Never speak with single words: use sentences

• Never speak too much: make students speak much

• Never go too fast: keep the pace of the student

• Never speak too slowly: speak normally

• Never speak too quickly: speak naturally

• Never speak too loudly: speak naturally

• Never be impatient: take it easy

Example

Advantages and disadvantages

• Natural method

• Learning is contextualized

• Emphasis on speech

• Full of activity

• Public schools

Advantages and disadvantages

• Teachers

• Skills

• Limited vocabulary

• Time

Can we use the direct method?

• Class instructions

• Speaking and listening

• Using visual aids to illustrate meaning