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Is Task-Based Learning Relevant to Elementary Schools?
Malcolm J. Benson, Hiroshima Shudo University, Japan
Fumiko Yamazaki, Meiji Gakuen Elementary School, Japan
This paper discusses the possibility of using TBL (Task-Based Leaning)
to enhance the language teaching of elementary school children, and explores
its potential for a wider range of learners. TBL correlates the claims
from recent SLA research results which confirm the necessity to provide
the learners occasions to do language experiments by themselves and develop
their inner system of language learning. Although it is claimed to be appropriate
for young learners and beginners, few empirical studies have been done.
In this paper, firstly the theoretical background of TBL is reviewed including
a comparison with PPP (Presentation- Practice-Production), and secondly
experimental TBL lessons given in an elementary school in Japan are reported
and discussed. These show a step-by-step description of experimental teaching
cycles and original materials, together with students' reactions to them.
The research concludes that TBL might be applicable for young learners,
though some modification may be necessary.
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