Perceptions of Grammar-Translation Method and Communicative Language Teaching Method Used in English Classrooms

Abstract

The Grammar-Translation method and Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) were both used in English classrooms in high schools in China. This research is a meaningful attempt to investigate the high school student's perceptions of the two mentioned language teaching methods and corresponding learning activities in terms of enjoyment and effectiveness so that their voices can be heard. By applying a quantitative research design using the descriptive approach, questionnaires were answered by the Grade 10 students as well as an informal interview with the teacher. It was found that the grammar-translation method is more favorable than CLT by both the students and the teacher. The implication is that CLT should be given more chances to be practiced by the teachers and students under the new curriculum reform.