Which approach emphasizes starting with language systems and using them later, focusing on shallow-end communication first?

Which approach emphasizes starting with language systems and using them later, focusing on shallow-end communication first?

• A. Strong CLT
• B. Weak CLT
• C. Topic
• D. Notion

Answer: (B)

Starting with language systems means giving learners explicit attention to grammar, structure, and form upfront, then using those forms in communication later. In the weak CLT approach, instruction is designed so students first study and practice the linguistic forms in controlled, structured contexts. Once these forms are familiar, they are applied in communicative tasks, even if those tasks are initially simple or shallow. This sequencing helps learners feel more confident to express themselves because they have a ready toolkit of forms to draw on, gradually increasing the depth of communication as accuracy improves. In contrast, strong CLT prioritizes meaningful, real-life communication from the start with less emphasis on form. Topics or notion-based approaches focus more on content organization rather than this form-first sequencing.