The Grammar Translation Method

The Grammar-Translation method is a foreign language teaching ‘method’ derived from the classical or method of teaching Greek and Latin. It requires the students to translate whole texts word for word and memorize numerous grammatical rules and exceptions as well as enormous vocabulary lists. The goal of this method is to be able to read and translate literary masterpieces and classics. Throughout Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries, the education system was formed primarily around a concept called faculty psychology. In brief, this theory dictated that the body and mind were separate and the mind consisted of three parts: the will, emotion, and intellect. It was believed that if the intellect could be sharpened enough and eventually control the will and the emotions. The way to do this was through learning classical literature of the Greeks and Romans, as well as mathematics.

It is really interesting that, although this method is considered to be outdated, it has marked the beginning of a concern about second language learning and teaching. Besides, it is also relevant to say that, depending on the student's aims (while learning English for specific purposes, for instance) many of the GTM basis may be applicable even nowadays.

‘GTM’ on the Internet:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grammar_translation

http://www.slideshare.net/vacoka/grammar-translation-method-presentation (video)

articles.famouswhy.com/language_teaching___the_grammar_translation_method/ -

http://global-english.lefora.com/2008/09/14/the-grammar-translation-method/

Bibliographical Sources:

LARSEN-FREEMAN, D. Techniques and principles in language teaching. New York; Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1986.

NORLAND, D.; PRUETT-SAID, T. A kaleidoscope of models and strategies for teaching English to speakers of other languages. Westport, Connecticut; London: Teacher Idea Press, 2006.

RICHARDS, J. ; RODGERS, T. Approaches and methods in Language teaching. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1986.