M-U-F (Meaning-Use-Form)

Azmi Bro Jihan

What is M-U-F ?

M-U-F is a grammar teaching framework (teaching approach) where it stands for MU-F (Meaning-Use-Form).

This framework integrates grammar and its context.

M-U-F

MEANING

USE

FORM

Meaning
1. literal or essential meaning of the word, phrase, functional expression or grammar structure 2. meaning of the word in a specific context.

Exp: RED skirt, RED from the sun, a well-known RED

MEANING

For the first step, teachers introduce a new language to children in MEANINGFUL CONTEXT to help the children understand the meaning of the language that they are learning. Meaning can be created through situations that are related to childrens life.

WAYS TO CREATE MEANING

Set situations or dialogues that are fun for children using dolls or other media. (puppet show). Using stories. Playing dramas. Using Total Physical Response (TPR) Using pictures. Using childrens experiences as learning materials.

Use

Refers to when or why the vocabulary, functional expression or grammar structure is used.

Exp: formal use, communicative use, greetings, imperative purposes etc.

USE

After children are exposed to English language through the situations manipulated by teachers, they also need opportunities to use English to communicate with others. They may use the language to play or to act in plays.

Sample of Activities
Games Information gap Quiz Plays Giving and following instructions to do or making something. Creating funny rhythms or songs.

Form

refers to the visible and audible parts of vocabulary, functional expressions and grammar units: the spelling, phonemes, syllable stress, words in a phrase, prefixes or suffixes, syntax (word order), choice of noun or verb, etc for a particular place in a sentence, and/or punctuation.

Exp: have done = present perfect to do, not to did in my opinion, not on my opinion

FORM

Children are subconsciously notice form of language (grammar) and tend to use language naturally in accordance with their need. Thus, teachers have the responsibility to attract childrens attention to language forms during English lesson, which means that the teachers are making the children aware of accurate language use both orally and written.

Children need certain conditions to make them understand meanings of English vocabularies and to use the language in natural context.
This means that the teachers have to introduce the language form with meaningful context, which to make the children feel motivated to use English as well.

THANK YOU