Task Based Learning Approach

This week we have been working on designing activities from different approaches. We have found some information about TBL which is really useful to become a bit more familiar with it.

Task based learning is a different way to teach languages. It offers to the students an opportunity to use the target language as they would do in everyday life using their own one. The task is an activity in which students use the language to achieve a specific outcome. 

The activity reflects real life and learners focus on meaning; they are free to use any language they want. Playing a game, solving a problem or sharing information or experiences.

To plan a TBL lesson we should follow these stages.

-        Pre-task: The teacher introduces the topic and gives clear instructions for the task.

-        Task: Students complete a task in pairs or groups using the language resources that they have.

-        Planning: Students prepare a short report to tell the class what happened during their task.

-         Report: Students then report back to the class orally or read the written report.

-    Analysis: The teacher then highlights relevant parts from the text of the recording for the students to analyse.

-       Practice: Finally, the teacher selects language areas to practise based upon the needs of the students and what emerged from the task and report phases. 

 TBL has some clear advantages:

-        The students are free of language control; they must use all their language resources.

-        A natural context is developed from the students' experiences with the language that is personalised and relevant to them.

-        The language explored arises from the students' needs.

-        It is a strong communicative approach where students spend a lot of time communicating.

-        It is enjoyable and motivating.

Here you can find some useful TBL activities:

http://saradavila.com/front/category/tbl-activities/