The Grammar Translation Method

The principles characteristics of GTM

1. a)The goal of foreign language study is to learn a language in order to read

its literature or in order to benefit from the mental discipline and
intellectual development that result from foreign language study.

b)Grammar translation is a way of studying a language that approaches the language first

through detailed analysis of its grammar rules, followed by application of the knowledge to

the task of translating sentences and texts into and out of the target language.

2.Reading and writing are the major focus.Little or no systematic attention is paid to speaking

and listening.

3.Vocabulary section is based solely on the reading text used.Words taught through bilingual

word lists, dictionary study and memorisation.

a)Grammar rules are presented and illustrated.A list of vocabulary items are presented with

their translation equivalents and translation exercises are prescribed.

4.The sentence is the basic unit of teaching and language practice. Much of the lesson is devoted to translating sentences into and out of the target language.This focuses on the sentences that is a distinctive feature of the method.

5.Accuracy is emphasized.Students are expected to attain high standards in translation, because of 'the high priority ' attached to meticulous standards of accuracy which,as well as having on instrinsic moral value,was a prerequisite for ppassing the increasing number of formal written examinations that grew up during century.

6.Grammar is taught deductively.

7.The students' native language is the medium of instruction. It is used to explain new items and to enable comparisons to be made between the foreign language and the native language.