Direct Method

A. Background

As a reaction to Grammar Translation Method, by the end of 19^th century, some advocates of active classroom methods had considerable influence on foreign language teachers. They believed that students learnt to understand a language by listening to it and that they learnt to speak by speaking it (Richards, 1986).

They tried to apply natural principles to language class by using intensive oral interaction in the target language. They believed  that the L2 could be taught without translation. According to them, a language could be best taught by using in the classroom. These oral and natural principles of language learning provided the foundation of Direct Method.

The ultimate aim of Direct Method is to develop the ability to think in the L2, whether conversing, reading, or writing. This new emphasis on the foreign language as the medium of instruction means that correct pronunciation becomes an important consideration.

C. Principles

Richards, (1986) stresses the following principles of Direct Method.

1. The learner must try to think directly in foreign language.
2. The foreign language must be constantly used without any allowance for the L1 use.
3. Classroom interaction is conducted exclusively in the L2.
4. Only everyday vocabulary and sentences are taught.
5. Oral communication skills are built up in a carefully graded progression.
6. Grammar is taught inductively.
7. New teaching points are introduced orally.
8. Concrete vocabulary is taught through demonstration, objects and pictures.
9. Both speech and listening comprehension are taught.
10. Correct pronunciation and grammar are emphasized.

C. Usual Classroom Techniques

1. The learner is drilled extensively in listening, imitating, and speaking.
2. Grammar is taught inductively through examples and demonstration.
3. Emphasis is on aural-oral proficiency.
4. Normal conversation is really encouraged by asking questions.