The Direct Method

The direct method was created in response to the grammar translation method and its methodology was grounded around the observation of the ways children learn their first language. One of thearguments in favor of this method states that a foreign language could be taught without translation and that engaging learners into a process similar to when they learn their first language will ultimatelylead to L2 acquisition. The direct method has one basic rule, no translation is allowed. This means that the learner has to convey meaning directly using the target language through the use ofdemonstration and visual aids.

In the direct method, the student has the role of a receiver and the teacher is the one who transmits all the knowledge. If the students ever find themselves in doubt theycan ask for aid, however any clarification will be given through visual aid or some sort of demonstration. Another characteristic of this method is that students have to be very precise when they areusing the target language. If they make any mistakes during production, the teacher makes sure they produce that sample of language correctly using modeling and repetition. The students are encouragedto give long answers to every question that the teacher asks. That is, this echoing technique is supposed to help learners to get familiarized with a certain phrase or word. Another important featurein this method is the use of realia. This is bringing objects that hold a personal meaning or a meaning that connects with the target culture. Every material that has not being specifically design forlanguage learning purposes can be categorized as realia. These materials are supposed to help learners to find a connection between the L2 and the used object.

One of the objectives of the directmethod is to have the students think in the target language. That is, they should be able to formulate and produce correct language samples without recurring to their first language. If a certain...