Communicative approach appeared in the 1950’s,it has been studied in China for almost 30 years. As a young teaching approach, it is widely accepted by many middle school English teachers. It is also a good teaching approach with many advantages. For example, it emphasizes the central position of students, and advocates that English is learnt to use, it emphasizes the communicative function of the language. Communicative approach helps the students to learn concisely and lively. Communicative approach in the class of middle school is adapted in accordance with the students’ psychological features.
However, it still needs improvement. This paper analyzes the disadvantages of communicative approach. For example, it puts emphasis on fluency but neglects accuracy; it stresses the communicative ability but neglects grammar, and the testing system is improper. This paper aims at rectifying these shortcomings in theory and practice. Firstly, we should get rid of some misunderstanding. Secondly, when it is adapted in practice, teachers need to design good introductions in the class and stimulate students’ interests. Thirdly, teachers should create a harmonious atmosphere, and build up a good relationship between teacher and the students.
Key words
Communicative approach; communicative ability; middle school English class; stimulation
Abstract ..................................................................................I
Key Words .................................................................................I
摘要 .....................................................................................II
关键词 ....................................................................................II
Introduction ..............................................................................1
Ⅰ. Communicative Approach.............................................................. ..2
A. Four Skills............................................................................ 2
B. Two Versions of Communicative Approach .................................................2
Ⅱ.Features of Communicative Approach .....................................................3
Ⅲ.Existing Problems in the Teachers’ Beliefs and Practice of Communicative Approach..... 4
A. Problems in the Teachers’ Beliefs..................................................... 4
1. Taking Communicative Approach as a Method.............................................. 4
2. Stressing Language Structures.......................................................... 5
3. Misunderstanding of Communicative Approach .............................................5
B. Some Practical Problems................................................................ 6
1. Some Differences between Reality and Theory ............................................6
2. The Teacher’s Problems ................................................................6
3. The Students’ Problems................................................................ 7
4. Fluency or Accuracy ....................................................................8
5. Improper Testing System ................................................................10
Ⅳ. Ways to Apply Communicative Approach to Practice ......................................10
A.Getting Rid of the Misunderstandin...................................................... 10
B. Designing the Introduction in the Class............................................ ....11
C.Stimulating Students’ Interests, and Enhancing Their Desire of English Learning ........12
D.Building up a Good Relationship Between Teacher and Students ............................12
E.Grouping the Students and Meet Their Needs............................................ ..13
F. Focusing on Communicating and Teaching Approach ........................................14
Conclusion ................................................................................17
Acknowledgements ..........................................................................19
Bibliography ..............................................................................20