Task-based learning at teaching grammar for pre-service english teachers.

Abstract

The article deals with the problem of rethinking of the design and delivery of pre-service foreign language teacher education programmes. The article shows the difference between PPT approach and task-based approach to learning. First of all, the author gives the definition of the notion “task” and its characteristics, “task-based learning” and the benefits learners can get from task-based learning (TBL). Task is a kind of an activity plan, which has the resource to promote foreign language use in the classroom. The main peculiar features of a task are 1) initial attention to meaning; 2) emphasis on language forms; 3) focus on how language is used in the real world. Task-based learning is an approach where learners carry out tasks such as solving a problem or planning an activity and the language learnt comes out of the linguistic demands of the activity. The benefits of TBL are 1) students are placed in a situation like in the real world; 2) students use their skills at their current level, to help develop language through its use; 3) students achieve their goals where language becomes a tool, making the use of language a necessity. The role of a teacher as a facilitator at the TBL lesson is described in the article. They must help learners to recognize differences and similarities; help them to improve their perceptions of the foreign language. There are criteria for identifying tasks for TBL presented in the form of six questions. Based on these criteria there are several types of tasks: listing and brainstorming, matching, ordering and sorting, comparison, problem-solving, sharing personal experiences and storytelling. The examples of grammar tasks for TBL are presented in the article. These examples relate to practical and theoretical English grammar courses. The author uses three phases of task-based activities, such as pretask activities, task – planning – report cycle, and post-task activities. Each phase to present to present TBL activities has its own aim and objectives.