Republic of the Philippines

Pangasinan State University

COLLEGE OF TEACHER EDUCATION
Language Department
Bayambang Campus
Bayambang, Pangasinan

A Paper Presentation in

EL 119
TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT OF GRAMMAR

Issues in Grammar Teaching and Assessment

Choice of Methods

Submitted by:
Keselene M. Bulatao
BSEd English III-1

Submitted to:
Assoc. Prof. Tuesday de Leon
Instructor
 I. Introduction

Teaching grammar is a fundamental part of being a language teacher, and

choosing the right teaching method is crucial for delivering lessons effectively.
Students depend on their teachers to provide tools and strategies that make learning
grammar easier to understand. However, language teachers often face challenges
when trying to find the best methods to teach grammar and assess students’
understanding. Despite these difficulties, it is essential that teachers strive to offer the
best possible learning experience because students deserve to be taught in a way that
is both meaningful and effective. This presentation will explore the common issues
language teachers encounter in choosing appropriate teaching methods, planning
assessments, and determining the effective ways to teach grammar.

II. Lesson Objectives

At the end of discussion, the students should be able to:

a. Identify the issues language teachers face when selecting methods for
teaching and assessing grammar;
b. Discuss how learner differences and classroom context influence
teachers’ choices in grammar teaching methods, especially during oral
recitation; and
c. Emphasize the importance of using the right methods when teaching
grammar for effective student learning.

III. Lesson Content

Choice of Methods

What is Teaching Method?

A teaching method is a set of principles and methods used by teachers to

enable teaching learning. It was employed by the teacher in guiding the pupils in order
to accomplish the aims of the learning situation. It is a series of related and progressive
acts performed by the teacher and the learners to accomplish the general and specific
aims of the lesson.

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 These are the several issues or things need to be considered when selecting a
methods for teaching and assessing grammar as follows:

1. Learner Diversity

Issue: Teachers must choose methods of instruction that support a diverse range of
learning styles, cognitive abilities, and cultural backgrounds. A standard teaching
method may not effectively engage or encourage all students.

⚫ Different Learning Styles: Some students prefer rule-based, structural learning,

while others excel when learning is based on real-world, interactive environments.

⚫ Proficiency Levels: Beginner students often need explicit grammar teaching

wherein a detailed grammar explanation, whereas advanced learners may benefit
from implicit learning communicative and task-based activities.

⚫ Cultural and Educational Backgrounds: Learners from diverse backgrounds may

have distinct experiences towards language learning. For example, students from
educational systems that emphasize memorization might struggle with more open-
ended or creative learning methods.

For example:

A teaching method that focuses primarily on rule-based education (deductive

method) may not be appropriate for learners who learn best through interaction and
practical application.

To deal with varied learning preferences and proficiency levels, teaching

methods must be flexible and adaptable. Instead of focusing on a single method,
teachers should use a mixed-method approach that allows for both structured and
experiential learning. A complicated method could cause students by failing to meet
their specific demands, leading in gaps in understanding and application.

2. Balancing Traditional and Communicative Approaches

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Issue: Finding an ideal combination between focusing on grammar accuracy and
promoting meaningful communication can be difficult. Teachers must make informed
choices when to encourage rule-based learning over communication competence.

⚫ Traditional Methods: Traditional grammar instructions (e.g., grammar-translation,

explicit rule teaching, and drills) focuses on grammatical accuracy. This methods
help learners develop a strong foundation in language structure, however it may
limit possibilities for the use of grammar naturally in communication.

⚫ Communicative Approaches: These methods prioritize the ability to use language

effectively in real-life language use. Learners are encouraged to use grammar
naturally in conversations and activities. However, this may result in less emphasis
on grammatical accuracy or the detailed learning of rules, especially for complex
structures.

Teachers often struggle to balance accuracy and fluency when assessing

students. Over-correcting grammar can discourage participation, while under-
correcting may lead to lasting mistakes. Deciding between explicit and implicit
grammar teaching depends on the learners’ needs and abilities. While both methods
are useful, finding the right balance is challenging.

Definition of Terms:

Accuracy: Prioritizes the proper use of language structures, which is essential for
students who require a solid understanding of grammar in formal contexts such as
academic writing or professional interactions. However, excessive correction
during speech can interrupt flow and undermine confidence in language use.

Fluency: Emphasizes the smooth, effective interchange of ideas in conversation,

essential for real-world communication. While fluency promotes confidence,
avoiding it may result in grammatical errors that are more difficult to correct later
on.

Explicit Instruction: Teachers directly explain grammar rules, giving clear guidance
and structured practice. This approach can be effective for learners who are
cognitively mature and need clear guidelines, but it may feel rigid or less engaging
for some students.

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 Implicit Instruction: Grammar is acquired through exposure and use without overt
explanation of rules, which is more natural and encourages unconscious language
acquisition. However, learners may fail to develop a solid understanding of
grammatical rules, especially for more advanced structures.

3. Formative vs Summative Assessment

Issue: Teachers face the challenge of integrating both formative and summative
assessments to effectively determine students' grammatical skills and communicative
abilities. While each assessment type has distinct benefits, finding the right balance to
support meaningful learning can be difficult.

⚫ Formative Assessment: Involves directly teaching grammar rules, offering

structured exercises, and providing clear explanations. This method works well for
learners who benefit from a more analytical approach, particularly those at higher
proficiency levels who need to master complex grammar.

⚫ Summative Assessment: A learner's grammatical knowledge is evaluated through

tests, such as exams. However, they often emphasize accuracy in isolated
contexts rather than the ability to use grammar communicatively.

4. Contextual Factors and Relevance

Issue: Teachers must consider the specific learning environment and external
pressures (such as curriculum standards or test preparation) when choosing methods
for grammar instruction).

⚫ EFL vs. ESL Settings: In English as a Foreign Language (EFL) settings, where
learners have limited exposure to English outside the classroom, explicit grammar
instruction is often necessary. In contrast, in English as a Second Language (ESL)
settings, where learners are immersed in English, more communicative methods
can be effective.

⚫ Educational System Expectations: Different education systems may have varying

demands for grammar teaching and assessment, with some emphasizing
accuracy through standardized tests.

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For example:

In an EFL classroom, a teacher might use real-life examples and allow students
to discover grammar rules through the inductive method. Following this, formative
assessments could involve students converting sentences from present to past tense
to check their understanding.

Using authentic materials and contextually relevant examples helps engage

students and reinforces grammar in a meaningful way.

5. Technology in Grammar Teaching and Assessment:

Issue: Integrating technology into grammar instruction must be done thoughtfully to

complement rather than replace traditional learning methods.

⚫ Advantages: Digital tools like apps and online quizzes offer interactive and
engaging ways to teach and assess grammar. They can also support self-
correction with features like grammar checkers.

⚫ Challenges: Relying too heavily on technology may overlook the deeper aspects
of grammar, such as contextual use and nuanced understanding. Some tools
might emphasize accuracy over practical usage.

For example:

The teacher can use a Power Point Presentation game to assess pronoun
usage, making the activity interactive and enjoyable while reinforcing grammar
concepts. This approach ensures students engage with the material actively while
learning effectively.

6. Student Engagement:

Issues: Teachers must select methods that effectively engage students and meet their
motivational needs, ensuring that the approach is learner-centered rather than
teacher-centered.

Engagement: Some methods may not equally engage all students or address their
interests, potentially impacting their motivation and learning outcomes.

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For example:

While traditional rote learning may be less engaging, methods that incorporate
interactive activities or real-life contexts can boost student interest and motivation,
leading to better learning experiences.

What is the most effective method?

There is no single “best” teaching method, as the effectiveness of any approach

depends on how well it suits the specific lesson, learners, and context. Each method
has its strengths, and it’s up to the teacher to choose and adapt them to meet the
needs of the students. The key is using the right combination of methods to engage
students and achieve learning objectives effectively.

IV. Conclusion

Choosing methods for grammar instruction and evaluation is indeed a complex

task. Teachers must balance the need for both accuracy and fluency, while also
addressing individual learner differences and integrating technology effectively. By
adopting a flexible and integrated approach, combining various methods and tools,
teachers can better meet the diverse needs of their students and create a more
engaging and effective learning environment.

V. References
Online Resources:

• Riel, S. (2024, August 8). Strategies Teaching Grammar English Language

learners. BridgeUniverse - TEFL Blog, News, Tips & Resources.
https://bridge.edu/tefl/blog/strategies-teaching-grammar-english-language-
learners/
• Ls, C. (2018, January 2). Factors and principles in choosing teaching
method [Slide show].

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 SlideShare. https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/factors-and-principles-in-
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• SheilaMaeMagdayao. (2024b, April 1). Methods-of-Teaching-Grammar-
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