The Structural Approach

The Structural Approach to language teaching emphasizes the importance of the form, or structure, of language in the learning process. This approach focuses on the grammatical and syntactical rules of the language and uses them as the basis for instruction. In this essay, we will explore the key features of the Structural Approach, its strengths, and weaknesses, and how it can be effectively implemented in language teaching.

The Structural Approach to language teaching has its roots in the work of American linguists such as Leonard Bloomfield and Zellig Harris, who were active in the early to mid-twentieth century. They believed that language was a system of rules that could be learned through analysis and understanding of its underlying structures. The Structural Approach was further developed by British linguists such as Harold Palmer and A.S. Hornby, who applied these ideas to language teaching.

The Structural Approach emphasizes the importance of grammar and syntax in language learning. It is based on the belief that language is a system of rules that can be learned through the analysis and understanding of its underlying structures. The Structural Approach is a form-focused method that typically involves the presentation of grammar rules, followed by pattern practice activities and controlled practice exercises. The approach is often associated with the audio-lingual method, which was popular in the mid-twentieth century.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the Structural Approach gained widespread popularity as part of the audio-lingual method, which was the dominant language teaching method at the time. The audio-lingual method was based on the principles of behaviourism, which emphasized the importance of habit formation through repetition and reinforcement.

Key Features of the Structural Approach

1. Grammar-based Instruction:

The Structural Approach focuses on teaching grammar and syntax as the foundation of language learning. This means that learners are expected to master the rules of the language and systematically apply them.

2. Sequenced Curriculum:

The Structural Approach uses a sequenced curriculum that introduces grammar and syntax in a logical order. This means that learners start with simple structures and gradually progress to more complex ones.

3. Pattern Practice:

Pattern practice is a key feature of the Structural Approach. It involves the repetition of grammatical structures in various contexts to reinforce learning.

4. Controlled Practice:

Controlled practice refers to activities that provide learners with opportunities to practice using grammar and syntax in a controlled setting. These activities are often teacher-led and provide a structured environment for learners to experiment with language.

5. Emphasis on Form: 

The Structural Approach places a strong emphasis on the form of the language, including its grammar and syntax. This means that learners are taught to recognize and use grammatical and syntactical patterns in the language.

6. Meaningful Practice: 

Meaningful practice activities should be incorporated to ensure that learners understand the meaning behind the structures they are learning.

7. Focus on Accuracy: 

The Structural Approach emphasizes accuracy in language learning. This means that learners are expected to produce grammatically correct sentences and use appropriate syntax.

8. Use of Audio-Visual Aids: 

The Structural Approach often involves the use of audio-visual aids, such as recordings and pictures, to help learners understand and practice the structures they are learning.

9. Error Correction: 

Error correction is an important part of the Structural Approach. Learners are corrected when they make errors in grammar and syntax, to help them develop accurate language skills.

Strengths of the Structural Approach

1. Systematic:

The Structural Approach provides a clear and systematic way of learning grammar and syntax. This means that learners can build on their knowledge and gradually develop their language skills.

2. Accuracy:

The emphasis on grammar and syntax ensures that learners develop accurate language skills. This is particularly important for learners who need to use the language in academic or professional settings.

3. Transferable:

The Structural Approach provides learners with a set of skills that can be applied to other languages. This means that learners who have mastered the grammar and syntax of one language are more likely to be successful in learning another.

Weaknesses of the Structural Approach

1. Overemphasis on Form:

The Structural Approach can be criticized for placing too much emphasis on form at the expense of meaning. This means that learners may be able to produce accurate sentences, but they may not understand their meaning.

2. Limited Communication Skills:

The Structural Approach may not provide learners with the communication skills they need to function in real-life situations. This means that learners may struggle to communicate effectively in natural settings.

Implementing the Structural Approach

Introduction of Structures:

The Structural Approach should begin with the introduction of simple structures that provide learners with a solid foundation for learning more complex ones.

Pattern Practice:

Pattern practice should be used to reinforce learning and provide learners with the opportunity to practice using grammar and syntax in different contexts.

Controlled Practice:

Controlled practice activities should be used to provide learners with a structured environment for experimenting with language.

Meaningful Practice:

Meaningful practice activities should be incorporated to ensure that learners understand the meaning behind the structures they are learning.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Structural Approach to language teaching is a method that emphasizes the importance of grammar and syntax in the learning process. While it has its strengths, such as its systematic and accurate approach, it also has weaknesses, such as its limited focus on communication skills. By implementing the Structural Approach in a way that balances form and meaning and provides learners with opportunities to practice using the language in meaningful contexts, language teachers can help learners develop a solid foundation in grammar and syntax while also developing their communication skills.