Select which of the following method (s) that matches the three classifications of methods

outlined by Kumaravadivelu (1993b); Language-centred methods, Learner-centred methods and

Learning-centred methods.

Justify and give appropriate examples.

Direct Method
Silent Method
Suggestopedia
Task-Based Approach
Total physical response
Grammar-translation Method
Communicative Language Teaching

a) Language-centred method.
In language-centred method, Kumaravadivellu (2005) mentioned that this kind of method believed in
structural linguist where language is treated as a system of system with its own subsystem. This
basically means that the core of the method focus on the language where learning and teaching
involves a lot of drilling and repetition. It adapts behaviourism where learning should have the
stimulus, response and reinforcement. Languages are learnt from basic pattern to complex pattern
using drillings. Based from the brief explanation, the method that best matches is Direct method as
both methods share them same focus on the structure and system of a language. Learning and
teaching of a language item will go one at a time and new input will be taught orally. The main focus
is on speaking and listening skills. Through drilling and repetition, correct pronunciation and
grammar is emphasized from this method of language teaching.
Another method that can be linked to this method is the Grammar Translation method that also
focuses on the language itself. Detail analysis of grammar rules which is taught deductively by
presentation and teaching of grammar rules similar to what Kumaravadivellu wrote in his book.
Planned presentation is used in teaching that provides learners with language inputs. Both the Direct
method and the Grammar Translation method fits this kind of method as it focus mainly on the
language and repeated process practice so students can memorize the language system.
b) Learner-centred methods
In this method, the emphasis is more on the learner where mainly the purpose of language is to
communicate based on language functions. Teacher will act as a facilitator where teacher will help
learners to use the language with accuracy and fluency. In this method, there is still emphasis on
grammar teaching but it is selected to suit the language functions that are needed in order to
communicate. It is slightly different that language is not taught as a system but as a discourse in
order for communication to take place. The suitable method that matches this characteristic is
Suggestopedia method where it aims to deliver proficiency in conversation. The main focus is on
vocabulary and how to use the vocabularies in communication with others. A slight difference in
classroom procedure is that Suggestopedia uses background music to assist in learning while learner-
centred method adapts more communicative activities. The similarities are on what is the purpose of
language and its emphasis for the methods.
Silent Way is also related to this method as grammatical items are taught in sequence. It also focuses
on the language and how languages are taught to achieve a near-native fluency with correct
pronunciation and mastering the language structure. The grammatical aspect is introduced from easy
to difficult and it is up to learners to take up the new knowledge and create a new understanding.
Teacher also acts as one who facilitates the learning similar to what Kumaravadivellu had explained
on his book.

c) Learning-centred methods
In learning-centred method the emphasis is more on language use and also how meaning and lexis
plays a part in language. For this method, learning of grammar is said to be acquired incidentally.
Meaning there is less focus on grammar but it is inserted in the context for learners to learn
unconsciously. Language development is comprehension based and is cyclical and parallel rather
than sequential. However, although the focus of language is on meaning, it is believed that learners
output are not essential where interaction considered being of less importance.
Total Physical Response is similar to this kind of method as it also emphasize on the meaning rather
than the grammatical items. Conversation dialogues are being hold on until after some time as daily
conversation are abstract and there are needs to understand them before you can use the language.
This might have some similarities in terms that learners output are not essential but at least for a
limit of time. These methods are more focused on the input or the knowledge that teachers
presented in the classroom rather than the need for language to be used communicatively.