Direct method is a method of teaching language directly
establishing a direct or immediate association between experience and expression, between the English word, phrase or idiom and its meaning through demonstration, dramatization without the use of the mother tongue. The direct method of teaching, which is sometimes called the natural method. Refrains from using the learners' native language and uses only the target language. In general, teaching focuses on the development of oral skills. Historical context The direct method was an answer to the dissatisfaction with the older grammar translation method. There was an intention to create conditions that imitate mother tongue acquisition. At the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries, Sauveur and Franke proposed that language teaching should be undertaken within the target-language system. It was established in Germany and France around 1900 and it contrasted the grammartranslation method. Characteristic of the direct Teaching conceptsmethod are: and vocabulary through pantomiming, real-life objects and other visual materials. Teaching grammar by using an inductive approach. Centrality of spoken language. Focus on question-answer patterns. Aims Direct method aims to build a direct relation between experience and language, word and idea, thought and expression. This method intends for students to learn how to communicate in the target language. This method is based on the assumption that the learner should experience the new language in the same way as they experienced in their mother tongue. Essentials No translation Concepts are taught by means of objects or by natural contexts Oral training helps in reading and writing Grammar is taught indirectly Techniques Question/answer exercise. Dictation: the teacher chooses a grade-appropriate passage and reads it aloud. Reading aloud: the students take turn reading sections of a passage, play or a dialogue aloud. Student self-correction: when a student makes a mistake the teacher offers him/her a second chance by giving a choice. Conversation practice: the students are given an opportunity to ask their own questions to the other students or to the teacher. Paragraph writing: the students are asked to write a passage in their own words. Principles Classroom instructions are conducted exclusively in the target language. Only everyday vocabulary and sentences are taught during the initial phase; grammar, reading and writing are introduced in intermediate phase. Oral communication skills are built up in a carefully graded progression organized around question-and-answer. Grammar is taught inductively. New teaching points are introduced orally. Principles Concrete vocabulary is taught through demonstration, objects, and pictures; abstract vocabulary is taught by association of ideas. Both speech and listening comprehensions are taught. Correct pronunciation and grammar are emphasized. Student should be speaking approximately 80% of the time during the lesson. Students questions as well as answer them. Conclusion The Direct method of teaching English can be applied in lower level classes where less explanations are required; the method is good at laying a firm basis for acquiring linguistic habits. However, the direct method of teaching can create problems as sometimes the students fail to follow what is being taught properly. Teachers can modify the direct method to meet the practical requirements of their own schools, implementing the main principles, teaching through oral practice and banning all translation into the target language. Obviously compromise is needed.