Total physical response

Methods and techniques

What is TPR?
TPR is an approach to teaching a
second language, based on listening
linked to physical activities which are
designed to reinforce comprehension.
INTRODUCTION
LEARNING HYPOTHESES
1. An innate bio-program exists for language
learning that defines an optimal path for 1st and 2nd
language development

Brain lateralization defines different learning

functions in the left and right brain hemispheres

Stress is viewed as affective filter – the lower the

stress, the greater the learning
TPR & The Natural Order
1. Children develop listening competence before they develop the ability to
speak. At early stages of 1st language acquisition, they can understand
complex utterances that they cannot spontaneously produce or imitate.

2. Children’s ability in listening comprehension is acquired because children

are required to respond physically to spoken language in the form of
parental commands.

3. Once a foundation in listening comprehension is established, speech

evolves naturally and effortlessly.
Key Features of TPR

Teacher directs and students “acts” in

response

Listening and physical response skills are

emphasized over oral production

The imperative mood is the most common

language function used even up to advanced
levels. Interrogatives are also included
Key Features of TPR

Humor is used in lessons to make them

enjoyable for learners

Students are not required to speak until they

feel naturally ready and confident enough

Grammar and vocabulary are emphasized

over other language areas. Spoken language
is emphasized over written language
 What is the connection to the classroom?

TPR is not always dancing and singing songs!

Total Generally, we refer to body movement with
Physical instruction to engage learners.

Response Students learn by identifying a certain key point

to some action.
(TPR)
TPR can be used for all curriculum, literacy,
science, math, and so on.
 Who benefits most from TPR?

Total TPR seems to work effectively for children and adults. There is
Physical no age barrier. The only setback is that if the language training
starts after puberty, the probability is almost certain that one
Response will have at least some accent in speaking the second language,
no matter how many years one lives in the foreign country.
(TPR) English speaking students who have little academic
reinforcement at home.
 Who benefits most (cont . . .)

Total
Struggling students
Physical
Response
(TPR)
Teachers are noticing growth in
students learning, and boosting the
academic levels in their classrooms.
Common / Typical Techniques

Using commands to direct behavior

Role reversal – students direct teacher and fellow learners

Action sequence
 Total Physical Response (TPR)
Example of Activity

This is an example of an effective TPR activity that students can perform at

their seats. Each student has a kit such as the interior of a kitchen. Then you say
in the target language, "Put the man in front of the sink.“ With your play board
displayed so that it is clearly visible to the students, you place the man in the
kitchen of your kit and your students follow by performing the same action in
their kits.
Total Physical Response (TPR)

50 Strategies for Teaching English Language

Learners,

Chapter 11 – Integrating Movement into Language

Acquisition

“In first-language learners, children acquire

receptive language before they attempt to speak,
they develop understanding through moving their
bodies and they are not forced to speak until they
are ready”
 Total Physical Response (TPR)

Step by Step (steps for teaching TPR lesson)

1. Choose physical vocabulary,
- ex. Stand up, show me the door, (language
used in the classroom)
2. Introduce vocabulary gradually
- Start with 3 & randomly use
3. Drop the physical modeling
4. Add additional commands
 Total Physical Response (TPR)
Step by Step (steps for teaching TPR lesson)

5. Add additional responses

-Find new ways for students to display their
understanding of vocabulary, ex. draw picture
6. Play games for additional practice
- only when students gain confidence
7. Assess student progress & understanding
(easy to visually assess, make a checklist)
Learner Roles

LISTENER AND PERFORMER

• Listen attentively and respond physically
• Produce novel combinations on their own

MONITOR AND EVALUATE OWN

PROGRESS
• Encouraged to speak when ready
Teacher’s Roles
ACTIVE AND DIRECT
• Decides what to teach, models and presents new materials
• Selects supporting materials for classroom, detailed lesson plan

TEACH AND PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR LEARNING

• Responsible to provide opportunities for learning
• Responsible to provide the best kind of exposure to language
• Controls language input that learners receive
• Provide raw material for “cognitive map’ that learners will construct in
their own minds
• Allow speaking abilities to develop at learner’s own pace
 Fun and Easy: Students enjoy activity!

Simple TPR activities do not require a great deal of preparation on the part of the
teacher.
TPR is inclusive and works well a class with mixed ability levels.

Good for kinesthetic learners who need to be active in class.

Advantages Good tool for building vocabulary.

of TPR Actions help build connections in the brain.

Helps learners achieve fluency faster by immersing learners in activities that

involve them in situational language use.
Good instructional practice for ESL’s in their silent period.

Works well for child and adult learners.

 Most useful for beginners.

Preparation becomes an issue for teachers at higher levels.

Students are not generally given the opportunity to express

their own thought in a creative manner.
Disadvantages It is easy to over use TPR and begin to bore students.
of TPR
May limit teachers in term of scope of language that can be
addressed.
Can be a major challenge for shy students.

Use of TPR in teaching abstract language – activities can be

limited to the directly obvious, visible and physically “doable”