Lecture Games in teaching grammar for the young learners

Lecture 9. Games in teaching grammar for the young learners
Key words: English grammar; grammar teaching approach; game; technology
Introduction:
Grammar is defined by Ur (1991: 4) as “the way language manipulates and combines words (or bits of words) in order to form longer units of meaning.”
This definition is quite close to the common understanding of what grammar is. The main difference is that it tells us how the rules of language actually work – they arrange and shape words. Nevertheless, knowing what these rules do is not a very motivating factor alone.
Crystal (2004) says, “Grammar is the structural foundation of our ability to express ourselves. The more we are aware of how it works, the more we can monitor the meaning and effectiveness of the way we and others use language”
As with the Grammar Translation Method, the Direct Method, sometimes called the Natural Method is not new. The Direct Method, an answer to the dissatisfaction with the older Grammar Translation Method, teaches students grammar and vocabulary through direct translations and thus focuses on the written language.
Communicative language Teaching (CLT)
Developed in the 1970s, and in critical reaction to the formal and boring types of exercises used under the Audio-lingual Method (‘drill-and-kill’ exercises), Communicative language teaching (CLT), also referred to as “communicative approach, is an approach that emphasizes interaction as both the means and the ultimate goal of learning a language.
In Communicative Language Teaching (CLT), the teacher spends less time on the structures of the language and more time encouraging the learners to use the language. It is frequent that communication activities such as games and puzzles which are often carried out in pairs or group are encouraged in teaching with no much correction or intervention during the activity.
The application of technology in teaching and learning Grammar
Nowadays, the integration of technology into the foreign language teaching becomes popular. As more and more technological advances with their resources become available, it is necessary that teachers become aware of how those advances might be used to enhance foreign language teaching and learning.
Technology not only facilitates the teachers’ tasks and saves their time and effort but also gives immediate, accurate and individual feedback which interests students and benefits students who are not confident doing their tasks in front of the class.
Grammar is usually taught by using traditional method before the availability of computer in the classroom teaching. Grammar lesson seems complex to students, and teaching grammar is challenging. Teachers always rely on blackboard and poster as their teaching aids.
Teaching grammar by using computer is more effective than teaching grammar by using traditional method. Graphic images, clear photos, sounds and videos can be used to help teachers in grammar teaching. Grammar lessons become more effective, motivating and interesting. However, it is best to remember that computer is not a substitution for teachers but rather it is an enabler to help both teachers and students have more opportunities to experience various innovative methods in teaching and learning.