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Language is Not Taught, It is Caught: Embracing the Communicative Approach in the Primary Classroom

Revathy B. R.*

Srinivas Institute of Education, Mangalore, Karnataka, India.

Periodicity:October - December'2024

Abstract

This paper explores the adoption of the Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) approach in primary classrooms, emphasizing that language acquisition is best achieved through meaningful communication rather than rote memorization. Drawing on Krashen's Input Hypothesis and Vygotsky's socio-cultural theory, the study highlights the importance of interaction, real-life application, and sociolinguistic competence in developing communicative skills. This paper further analyzes key strategies such as task-based learning, multilingual integration, and cultural awareness, demonstrating their effectiveness in enhancing linguistic competence and critical thinking in young learners. Finally, it addresses the challenges of implementing CLT in under-resourced classrooms and proposes solutions through teacher training and curriculum reform.

Keywords

English Language Acquisition, Communicative Approach, Primary Classroom, Grammar-Based Approaches, Authentic Communication, Memorization.

How to Cite this Article?

Revathy B. R. (2024). Language is Not Taught, It is Caught: Embracing the Communicative Approach in the Primary Classroom. i-manager’s Journal on English Language Teaching, 14(4), 36-41.

References

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[2]. Ellis, R. (2003). Task-Based Language Learning and Teaching. Oxford University Press.

[3]. Krashen, S. (1981a). Second language acquisition. Second Language Learning, 3(7), 19-39.

[4]. Krashen, S. (1981b). Second Language Acquisition and Second Language Learning. Pergamon Press.

[5]. Krashen, S. (1982). Principles and Practice in Second Language Acquisition. Pergamon Press

[6]. Larsen-Freeman, D., & Anderson, M. (2011). Techniques and Principles in Language Teaching. Oxford University Press.

[7]. Lightbown, P. M., & Spada, N. (2013). How Languages are Learned. Oxford University Press.

[8]. Littlewood, W. (2011). Communicative language teaching: An expanding concept for a changing world. In Handbook of Research in Second Language Teaching and Learning (pp. 541-557). Routledge.

[9]. Long, M. H. (2017). Second Language Acquisition and Task-Based Language Teaching. Wiley-Blackwell.

[10]. Nunan, D. (2021). Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages: An Introduction. Routledge.

[11]. Richards, J. C. (2006). Communicative Language Teaching Today. Cambridge University Press.

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[13]. Skehan, P. (1998). A Cognitive Approach to Language Learning. Oxford University Press.

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