Communicative Language Teaching principles

Which of the following statements best describes Communicative Language Teaching (CLT)?

• 1. Focuses on memorization of grammar and translations

• 1. Emphasizes communication and real-life context interactions

• 1. Language drills are of the top priority

• 1. Relies heavily on teacher-centered instruction

Answer explanation

Communicative Language Teaching prioritizes communication and authentic live interaction above anything else in language learning. Putting a giant emphasis on practical application of your language skills.

What is the main goal of CLT?

• 1. Developing fluency in writing and speaking skills

• 1. Mastery of grammar rules

• 1. Memorizing large quantities of vocabulary

• 1. Development of communicative competence

Answer explanation

The primary goal of CLT is to develop students’ communicative competence, which means equipping them with the ability to freely, effectively, and fluently communicate and interact in real-life situations. It emphasizes the practical use of language.

Which of the following is NOT a KEY component of CLT?

• 1. Authentic materials

• 1. Pair and group work

• 1. Task-based activities

• 1. Physical response 

Answer explanation

Physical response activities do not usually involve meaningful communication and interaction between students. They usually serve as a catalyst for students to memorize, associate, or remember some words, phrases, or concepts. It is not a key component of CLT.

Which of the following activities represents CLT practice the best?

• 1. Lecturing on grammar rules application

• 1. Individual completion of fill-in-the-blank task

• 1. Written translation of a large text

• 1. Role-playing a real-life scenario 

Answer explanation

Role-play activities are the best authentic activity out of the presented four to practice real-life communication scenarios within your classroom. They involve various interaction patterns, collaboration, and communication.

How can CLT principles be adapted to diverse classroom settings?

• 1. By using the same set of activities for all language levels

• 1. By incorporating different technology into the classroom

• 1. By adapting activities according to their level and interest

• 1. By strictly following a predefined curriculum without any changes

Answer explanation

Diverse classroom settings could be achieved by a very careful observation of your students’ levels, interests, abilities, and further adaptation of activities. Their needs assessment will serve as a strong foundation for a welcoming and diverse CLT classroom.

Find the best description of the teacher role in a CLT classroom

• 1. The teacher is the primary source of information and corrector

• 1. The teacher facilitates communication and promotes meaningful interaction

• 1. The teacher lectures on grammar rules and vocabulary

• 1. The teacher assigns various tasks for individual completion

Answer explanation

The teacher of a CLT classroom, is first things first a facilitator, guide, and fosterer of an interactive learning environment where students can freely engage in conversations and discussions without any constraints.

What activities are best suited for a CLT classroom?

• 1. Role-plays, information gaps, problem-solving tasks

• 1. Translations, fill-in-the-gap, essay writing

• 1. Matching, flashcard memorization, drills

• 1. Running dictations, lectures, written quizzes

Answer explanation

Role-plays, information gaps, problem-solving tasks activities are best suited for a CLT classroom as they involve different collaborative interactions, authentic communication, and meaningful language use by all the students involved. It also aligns with communicative language teaching principles.

What is the primary role of feedback in CLT?

• 1. to support learners in effectively communicating in the target language 

• 1. to accurately assess students’ language proficiency levels 

• 1. to minimize learner autonomy and dependence on the teacher

• 1. to prevent students from taking risks in language use

Answer explanation

This is because feedback in CLT plays a significant role in providing learners with guidance and encouragement, helping them improve their language skills and confidence in real communication situations.

What is communicative competence?

• 1. It focuses primarily on acquiring native-like pronunciation and fluency

• 1. It refers to the mastery of grammar rules and vocabulary in a language

• 1. It involves understanding the literal meanings of words and phrases, without considering the cultural context.

• 1. It is determined by one's  ability to effectively and appropriately use language in various social contexts

Answer explanation

Communicative competence refers to the ability to effectively and appropriately use language in various social contexts to convey intended meanings and achieve communicative goals. It is an essential part of Communicative Language Teaching that helps your students to clearly understand, perceive, and express themselves while interacting in various social contexts.

How can CLT teachers address cultural differences among students?

• 1. Avoiding discussion of culturally sensitive topics to maintain neutrality

• 1. Integrating cultural elements into lessons and encouraging discussions about cultural norms and values

• 1. Enforcing the dominant culture’s interests and cultural assimilation

• 1. Giving separate instructions to students from different cultural backgrounds

Answer explanation

The best way to address cultural differences among students is to integrate different cultural elements into your lessons, educating and introducing your students to the peculiarities of other cultures and their values, morals, and mentalities. It would be a big mistake if you just ignored the cultural differences of your students.