Which teaching approach emphasizes drilling and repetitive practice of grammatical and phonological structures, and is associated with behaviorism?

Which teaching approach emphasizes drilling and repetitive practice of grammatical and phonological structures, and is associated with behaviorism?

• A. Audio-lingualism
• B. Communicative approach
• C. Direct method
• D. Silent Way

Answer: (A)

Drilling and repetitive practice of grammatical and phonological structures—viewing language learning as habit formation reinforced by practice—belongs to audio-lingualism. This approach grew out of behaviorist ideas that correct responses repeated under guidance become automatic language habits. In practice, learners engage in pattern drills, dialogues, and substitution activities until the target forms are automatic, with a strong focus on pronunciation and accuracy before meaning.

The other approaches differ: the communicative approach emphasizes meaningful interaction and authentic communication over routine form drills; the Direct Method stresses spontaneous use of the language in immersion, with grammar learned inductively through exposure; the Silent Way centers on learner autonomy, discovery learning, and minimizing teacher talk.