Approach, Method,

and Strategies in
Improving Language
skills in teaching
English to young
language learner.

Module 4
Teaching English to Young Learners
Universitas Kristen Indonesia Toraja
By Purwanto, S.Pd., M.A.
Practicioner
Overview
This module discuss the definition of
approach, method and strategies in
English Language Teaching.
Moreover, it is generalized in the
term of Teaching English to Young
Learners. At the end of the course,
students are able to explain its
distinction.

Purwanto
Objectives
After completing this lesson, you will
be able to:

1. explain the definition of approach,

method and strategies in improving
Language skills of Young Learners.
2. Apply the basic understanding of
approach and strategies in
Language Teaching Project through
discussion.
Contents
1. Understanding approach,
method and strategies.
2. Examples of approaches in TEYL.
3. Examples of Strategies in TEYL
 The definition of
Approach, Method
and Strategies
Richards and Rodgers (2016) Approach
refers to theories about the nature of
language and language learning that serve
the source of practice and principle in
language teaching.

Approach is a way of looking at teaching and

learning. It is a theoretical view of what
language is and how it can be learnt.
Moreover, approach gives rise to methods,
the way of teaching something but is not
method in itself.

Method is the level at which theory is put

into practice and at which choices are made
about particular skills to be taught, the
content to be taught, and the order in which
the content will be presented.
Strategies are methods of approaching a
problem or task, modes of operation for
achieving particular end, or planed design,
for controlling and manipulating certain
information.

Furthermore, Issac (2010) explains that teaching

tactics are that behavior of the teacher which he
manifests in the class i.e., the developments
of the teaching strategies, giving proper
stimulus for timely responses, drilling the learnt
responses, increasing the responses by extra
activities.
 Examples of Approaches in TEYL

1. Communicative Language Teaching (CLT)

Communicative language teaching is an approach to Language teaching which gained traction in
1980s. This approach emphasizes the important of “Communicative Competence”. So, the
interaction and communication of real meaning is considerable. Moreover, this approach tends
to promote fluency and accuracy, the functional over the structural, authentic materials over
fabricated materials.
As cited in Richard and Rodgers (2016) Haliday stated that the seven basic functions that language
performs for children learning their first language:
1. The instrumental function: using language to get thing
2. The regulatory function: using language to control the behavior of others
3. The interactional function: using the language to create interaction with others
4. The personal function: using language to express personal feelings and meanings
5. The heuristic function: using language to learn and to discover
6. The imaginative function: using language to create a world of the imagination
7. The representational function: using language to communicate information

Here are the typical of Communicative Language Teaching

• target language/some mother tongue

• learner/teacher-centered
• presentation by teacher of new functional language, vocab or structure
• practice by learners moving from controlled to spontaneous
• pair-work, group-work
• worksheets and activity cards
• functional language exercises
• "real-life" interactive activities including information gap, role-play
• plenty of actual listening, speaking, reading and (homework?) writing
• games
• authentic materials
• realia
2. Task Based Language Teaching Approach
Task based language Teaching (TBLT) refers to the use of task as the core unit of planning and
instruction in language teaching. It is an approach to language education in which students are
given functional tasks that invite them to focus primarily on meaning exchange and to use
language for real-world, nonlinguistic purpose.
Richard and Rodgers (2016) Benefits of TBLT:
1. Greater motivation
2. Opportunity for repetition with no boredom
3. Promotion of learning how to learn
4. An opportunity for natural error correction
5. Promotion risk taking
6. Higher proficiency results
7. Increase student satisfaction, and better program evaluation results
Task based activity for children
1. Story/comic compare
2. In my house
3. Tracing
4. Walking
5. Writing on the walls
6. Building a letter
Read more the explanation: Task based activities for children

TBLT proposes the notion of “Task” as a central unit of planning and teaching; hence the concept
of task needs to be clearly articulated in order to understand the nature of TBLT.

What is task?

Task is an activity or goal that is carried out using language, such as finding a solution to a puzzle,
reading a map and giving directions, making a telephone call, writing a letter, or reading a set of
instructions and assembling a toy.

Nunan (1989) communication task is a piece of classroom work which involves learners in
comprehending, manipulating, producing or interacting in the target language while their
attention is principally focused on meaning rather than form. The task also has a sense of
completeness, being able to stand alone as communicative act in its own right.

Read more General Principle of Task Based Approach

 Strategies in TEYL

Talking about strategy used in TEYL, Here are some strategies considered suitable for them:

1. Student -learning center

2. Collaborative strategy
3. Drilling strategy

A. Student learning center

Creating a successful student learning center strategy for Teaching English to Young Learners
(TEYL) requires a focus on age-appropriate methodologies, engaging activities, and a supportive
environment. Here is a comprehensive strategy to enhance the learning experience for young
English learners:

1. Understanding Young Learners

• Developmental Stages: Recognize the developmental stages of young learners and tailor
activities that are suitable for their cognitive, emotional, and social levels.
• Learning Styles: Consider the diverse learning styles (visual, auditory, kinesthetic) and
incorporate activities that cater to these preferences.

2. Curriculum Design

• Thematic Units: Organize lessons around themes that are relevant and interesting to
young learners, such as animals, family, food, and seasons.
• Skill Integration: Design activities that integrate listening, speaking, reading, and writing
skills in a balanced way.
• Phonics and Vocabulary: Emphasize phonics for reading development and build a strong
vocabulary foundation through repetition and contextual use.

3. Engaging Teaching Methods

• Play-Based Learning: Use games, songs, stories, and role-play to make learning fun and
engaging. This method helps in retaining interest and reinforcing language skills.
• Hands-On Activities: Incorporate crafts, drawing, and interactive activities that allow
children to use English in a meaningful context.
• Storytelling: Use storytelling to improve listening skills and introduce new vocabulary.
Encourage students to retell stories to enhance speaking skills.
4. Interactive Environment

• English-Rich Environment: Create an immersive English environment with posters, labels,

and displays that reinforce language learning.
• Learning Centers: Set up different learning centers focusing on specific skills, such as a
reading corner, a writing station, and a phonics area.

5. Technology Integration

• Educational Apps and Games: Use age-appropriate educational apps and online games
to reinforce language skills. Platforms like ABCmouse and Starfall can be useful.
• Multimedia Resources: Utilize videos, songs, and interactive whiteboards to make
lessons dynamic and engaging.

6. Assessment and Feedback

• Formative Assessment: Use informal assessments like observations, checklists, and short
quizzes to monitor progress.
• Positive Feedback: Provide positive and constructive feedback to encourage and
motivate young learners. Celebrate small achievements to build confidence.

7. Parental Involvement

• Parent Workshops: Conduct workshops to educate parents on how to support their

child’s English learning at home.
• Home Activities: Provide simple activities and reading materials for parents to use with
their children at home.

8. Professional Development for Teachers

• TEYL Training: Offer specialized training for teachers in TEYL methodologies and
classroom management strategies for young learners.
• Collaborative Planning: Encourage teachers to collaborate, share ideas, and co-plan
lessons to enhance teaching practices.

9. Supportive Environment

• Safe and Nurturing Atmosphere: Ensure the learning center is a safe and nurturing place
where children feel comfortable and are encouraged to express themselves.
• Social and Emotional Learning: Incorporate activities that promote social skills, empathy,
and emotional intelligence.
10. Extracurricular Activities

• English Clubs: Organize English clubs where children can participate in fun activities like
storytelling, drama, and music in English.
• Cultural Events: Plan events that expose children to English-speaking cultures through
festivals, cooking activities, and celebrations.

11. Resource Availability

• Library and Resources: Maintain a library with a collection of age-appropriate English

books, audio-visual materials, and learning aids.
• Learning Kits: Provide learning kits that children can take home, containing books,
flashcards, and activity sheets.

12. Continuous Improvement

• Regular Review: Regularly review and update the curriculum and teaching methods
based on feedback from teachers, parents, and students.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest research and trends in TEYL to continuously
improve the learning experience.

By implementing these strategies, a student learning center can create an effective and enjoyable
English learning environment for young learners, laying a strong foundation for their future
language development.

B. Collaborative strategy

Developing a collaborative strategy in Teaching English to Young Learners (TEYL) involves

leveraging the strengths and insights of various stakeholders—teachers, parents, students, and
the community—to create a supportive and dynamic learning environment. Here’s a detailed
approach to fostering collaboration in TEYL:

1. Teacher Collaboration

• Co-Planning Sessions: Regularly schedule co-planning sessions where teachers can share
ideas, resources, and strategies for lesson planning. This encourages consistency and
creativity in teaching methods.
• Professional Learning Communities (PLCs): Establish PLCs where teachers can discuss
challenges, share best practices, and engage in professional development related to TEYL.
• Peer Observations: Implement a system where teachers observe each other’s classes and
provide constructive feedback, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
2. Parental Involvement

• Workshops for Parents: Conduct workshops to educate parents on the importance of

their role in language learning and provide them with strategies to support their children
at home.
• Regular Communication: Use newsletters, emails, and meetings to keep parents
informed about their child’s progress and upcoming activities. Encourage parents to share
feedback and suggestions.
• Home Activities: Provide simple, fun activities that parents can do with their children to
reinforce English learning at home, such as reading books, singing songs, or playing
language games.

3. Student Collaboration

• Group Activities: Design activities that require teamwork, such as group projects,
collaborative storytelling, and role-playing. This helps students practice English in a social
context.
• Peer Learning: Pair or group students of different proficiency levels to encourage peer
tutoring and learning from each other.
• Student-Led Sessions: Encourage older or more advanced students to lead activities or
mini-lessons, fostering leadership skills and reinforcing their own learning.

4. Community Engagement

• Partnerships with Local Organizations: Collaborate with local libraries, cultural centers,
and businesses to provide additional resources and real-world language experiences for
students.
• Guest Speakers: Invite community members, such as native English speakers or
professionals who use English in their work, to share their experiences and interact with
students.
• Field Trips: Organize visits to local places of interest where students can practice English
in a natural setting, such as museums, theaters, or parks.

5. Technology and Online Collaboration

• Digital Platforms: Use online platforms like Google Classroom, Seesaw, or Edmodo to
facilitate communication and collaboration among teachers, students, and parents.
• Virtual Pen Pals: Set up a virtual pen pal program with schools in English-speaking
countries, allowing students to practice writing and communication skills with peers
abroad.
• Interactive Tools: Incorporate interactive tools and apps that enable collaborative
learning, such as shared online whiteboards, collaborative storytelling apps, and language
learning games.
6. Collaborative Curriculum Development

• Inclusive Curriculum Design: Involve teachers, parents, and even students in the
curriculum design process to ensure it meets the needs and interests of the learners.
• Cultural Exchange Programs: Develop programs that include cultural exchange elements,
allowing students to learn about different cultures while practicing English.

7. Assessment and Reflection

• Collaborative Assessments: Use collaborative projects and group assessments to

evaluate students’ language skills in a cooperative context.
• Reflective Practices: Encourage teachers and students to reflect on their collaborative
efforts and discuss what worked well and what could be improved.

8. Extracurricular Activities

• English Clubs: Establish English clubs that focus on collaborative activities like drama,
debate, or creative writing, providing additional opportunities for language practice.
• Events and Competitions: Organize events such as spelling bees, storytelling contests,
and English fairs that require teamwork and collaboration.

9. Building a Collaborative Culture

• Shared Vision: Develop a shared vision and goals for the TEYL program that all
stakeholders understand and support.
• Open Communication: Foster an environment where open communication is
encouraged, and everyone feels valued and heard.
• Recognition and Celebration: Recognize and celebrate collaborative efforts and
achievements of teachers, students, and parents to motivate continued participation.

C. Drilling strategy

Drilling is a common and effective technique in Teaching English to Young Learners (TEYL) that
involves repeated practice of language structures to reinforce learning and ensure retention.
However, to make drilling engaging and suitable for young learners, it’s important to incorporate
creativity and interaction. Here’s a comprehensive strategy for effective drilling in TEYL:

1. Interactive Drills

• Call and Response: Use a call-and-response technique where the teacher says a word or
phrase and the students repeat it. This can be turned into a game by varying the volume
or speed.
• Choral Repetition: Have the entire class repeat words or sentences together. This builds
confidence as no single student feels on the spot.
 • Echo Drills: The teacher says a word or phrase, and students echo it back. This can be
done in different voices or tones to make it fun.

2. Game-Based Drills

• Flashcard Games: Use flashcards for drilling vocabulary. Play games like "Flashcard Flip,"
where students must say the word on the card as quickly as possible.
• Bingo: Create Bingo cards with words or phrases being drilled. Call out the words and
have students mark their cards, reinforcing recognition and recall.
• Simon Says: Play "Simon Says" using English instructions, which helps students practice
listening and comprehension while being active.

3. Incorporating Movement

• TPR (Total Physical Response): Combine drilling with physical actions. For example, say
“jump” and have students jump, reinforcing the word with the action.
• Action Songs and Chants: Use songs and chants with repetitive structures that include
actions, such as "Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes," to drill body parts.

4. Visual Aids and Props

• Puppets and Toys: Use puppets or toys to engage young learners in drills. The puppet can
ask questions or model sentences for students to repeat.
• Storybooks and Picture Books: Use repetitive language in storybooks to drill vocabulary
and structures. Pause to have students repeat key phrases.

5. Contextualized Drills

• Role-Play: Set up simple role-plays where students practice drilling phrases in context,
such as ordering food at a restaurant or asking for directions.
• Story Retelling: After reading a story, have students retell it using key phrases and
vocabulary, drilling the language in a meaningful context.

6. Pair and Group Work

• Pair Drills: Have students work in pairs to practice dialogues or ask and answer questions,
providing more speaking opportunities.
• Group Drills: Organize small groups to perform a task, such as a mini-dialogue or a chant,
and then present to the class.

7. Technology Integration

• Language Learning Apps: Use apps that incorporate repetition and drilling in an
interactive format, like Duolingo or Starfall.
 • Interactive Whiteboards: Utilize interactive whiteboards for drilling exercises, such as
matching games or digital flashcards.

8. Creative Writing and Drawing

• Drawing and Labeling: Have students draw pictures and label them with the vocabulary
being drilled. This combines visual and kinesthetic learning.
• Sentence Strips: Provide strips of paper with words or phrases for students to arrange
into sentences, reinforcing word order and sentence structure.

9. Rewards and Motivation

• Stickers and Certificates: Use stickers, stamps, or certificates to reward students for
participation and effort in drilling activities.
• Praise and Encouragement: Give lots of positive reinforcement to build confidence and
motivate students to participate actively.

10. Variation and Fun

• Change of Pace: Vary the speed and volume of drills to keep students engaged.
Whispering or shouting phrases can add an element of surprise and fun.
• Silly Sentences: Create silly or funny sentences using the vocabulary being drilled, which
can make the activity more enjoyable and memorable.
References and further reading

Issac, Jerin C. (2010). Methods and Strategies of Teaching: an overview. Pondicherry

University Press.

Richards, J. C., and T. Rodgers. 2001. Approaches and Methods in Language Teaching. 3rd
edition. India. Cambridge University Press.

Nunan, D. 1989. Designing Tasks for The Communication Classroom. Cambridge:

Cambridge University Press.

Communicative Language Teaching | Language Teaching Methods | TEFL.NET

Task-Based Learning Activities for Teaching English to Young Learners (ontesol.com)

Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) in Indonesian Context: an Overview |

Khoiriyah | Jurnal Pendidikan Progresif (unila.ac.id)

What Is Task-Based Learning? A Guide to the Popular Teaching Method (bridge.edu)

(PDF) Drilling Technique to Improve the Young Learners' English Vocabulary Mastery
(researchgate.net)