General Principles

Principles and Methods: General Principles of Second Language Learning

Learning a language is the process of learning to communicate effectively with speakers of that language. One criteria for judging "correct" speech, therefore, is "Would a native speaker say it that way?"
Language is systematic and structured. Learning a language requires internalizing patterns or "rules" into habits. Conscious knowledge of the rules is not necessary, but may be helpful, especially with older learners. It is best to limit instruction to one new structure or pattern at a time.
A good sequence for acquiring language skills is: listening, speaking, reading and finally writing. Learning should proceed from concrete to abstract and from oral to graphic skills in small incremental steps. Ideally, students should hear and comprehend language patterns several times, practice them orally, and then read and write using them, at least in the initial stages of instruction. One sequence for teaching is: demonstrate meaning with objects, pictures or acting out, then model sentences. Ask student to repeat the sentences several times, and proceed with activities and drills toward mastery. Follow-up activities can include reading and writing exercises, especially if students can read and write in their native language.
Culture is an integral part of language. As often as possible, include sentences and phrases that would actually be used by Americans. Since words and language use reflect the way people think in the context of their culture, learning a second language involves becoming aware of behavioral and linguistic patterns which may be new and even inappropriate in the student's home culture. For example, opening a gift in the presence of the giver is considered highly impolite in some cultures, though it's usually expected in the United States. Children are not allowed to meet the eyes of their elders in some countries, a habit that may be perceived as evasiveness here. Understanding and accepting cultural differences is a first step toward becoming truly bilingual and bicultural, a world citizen.