At The Greek Online School, we are committed to making the journey of learning Greek an engaging and enriching experience for our students. Our approach to teaching Greek is rooted in the communicative method, a dynamic and immersive approach that emphasizes practical communication skills, natural language use, and active student participation. In this article, we will delve into our teaching philosophy, highlighting the key elements of our communicative approach that sets us apart.
The Communicative Approach Unveiled: The communicative approach is a pedagogical method that places communication at the heart of language learning. Rather than focusing solely on memorizing vocabulary and grammar rules, it prioritizes practical language use, enabling learners to actively engage in real-life conversations. It’s an approach that emphasizes functionality, encouraging students to communicate effectively and confidently.
Spoken Greek as the Centerpiece: At our school, spoken Greek takes center stage. We firmly believe that language learning should be a vibrant, interactive experience from the very beginning. Our approach encourages students, regardless of their proficiency level, to express themselves orally in Greek. This approach not only fosters linguistic competence but also builds the confidence needed for effective communication.
Student-Centered Learning: Learning Greek is not just about what the instructor teaches but also about what the student learns. That is why we advocate for “student talking time” to empower learners to apply their language skills and communicate in meaningful ways. This approach nurtures independent language acquisition and self-assured communication.
Real-Life Language Use: Learning Greek isn’t just about mastering vocabulary and grammar; it’s about understanding how language functions in real-life contexts. Our lessons are designed to simulate genuine communicative situations. Through role-play, situational dialogues, and practical exercises, students grasp the subtleties of the language, honing their ability to navigate various social and cultural interactions.
Interactive Activities: One of the biggest mistakes in a language classroom is passive learning. To avoid that, we incorporate a variety of interactive activities to keep our students engaged and motivated. From group discussions and debates to games and simulations, every lesson is a dynamic experience. These activities not only make learning enjoyable but also reinforce language skills effectively.
Audiovisual Material: Audiovisual material is definitely what enhances the learning experience. Videos, podcasts, and multimedia resources are integral to our lessons. They provide authentic exposure to Greek spoken in different accents and settings, helping students adapt to various communication styles and understand the language’s rhythm and intonation.
Cultural Integration: Understanding a language goes hand in hand with understanding the culture it represents. We seamlessly integrate Greek culture into our lessons, introducing students to traditions, art, cuisine, and contemporary life. This cultural immersion not only deepens language skills but also enriches students’ understanding of Greece and its people.
Language teaching is about creating an immersive and interactive learning environment. It should be a space that empowers students to communicate confidently in Greek while at the same deepening their understanding of Greek culture.
