|
By Natalie J. Dahl, MS, CCC-SLP
What is TPR?
Total Physical Response (TPR) was developed in the late 1960s and
is a listen-and-respond technique used for teaching vocabulary or
language concepts. Physical movement is used to help students
react to verbal input. This technique mimics the way that young
children learn language. It also lowers stress and decreases student
inhibitions.
Why TPR?
The act of moving is memory-friendly. TPR creates a link in students’ brains between
speech and action. This link boosts vocabulary and language learning. It also makes
learning fun and is a way to get students moving.
Who is TPR for?
TPR is best used when teaching vocabulary words associated with actions. It is most
effective when used with either English Language Learners, native language speakers
learning new vocabulary words, or students with language delays.
How is TPR Used?
There are six steps a teacher can follow to use TPR effectively:
-
Prepare: First, the teacher selects the vocabulary to be taught to students
and gathers any pictures or props needed to illustrate the meaning of the
words.
-
Teacher Modeling: The teacher says the new vocabulary word out loud
for students to hear. As the teacher says the word, gestures, pictures, facial
expressions, and/or props are used to demonstrate the meaning of the
word.
-
Student Modeling: A few student volunteers imitate the same gestures,
facial expressions, use of pictures, and/or props modeled as the teacher says
the word.
-
Student Participation: All students in the class now imitate the gestures,
facial expressions, use of pictures, and/or props that were first modeled by
the teacher and student volunteers. The students say the vocabulary word as
they make the movement.
-
Writing: The teacher writes the vocabulary word in a place where all
students can see it. This helps students make connections between oral and
written words.
-
Repetition and Practice: This technique is used to continue to teach new
words and phrases. New and old words are repeated and practiced many
times to ensure learning.
Total Physical Response is just one of many tools to teach language. It should not be used
in isolation, but with other approaches and techniques to provide the best education to
students.
|