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What Are the Basic Differences between CLT and GTM?
What are the basic differences between CLT and GTM?
Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) and Grammar Translation Method (GTM) are two popular approaches to language teaching. While GTM focuses on grammar rules and translation, CLT emphasizes communication and the practical use of language.
The table below compares the fundamental differences between these two methods.
| Aspect | Grammar Translation Method (GTM) | Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) |
| Focus | Grammar rules, translation, and accuracy. | Communication, fluency, and real-life use. |
| Skills Emphasized | Reading and writing. | Speaking and listening. |
| Teaching Approach | Teacher-centred lectures and memorization. | Student-centred, interactive activities. |
| Role of Grammar | Explicit teaching of grammar rules. | Grammar taught in context, not explicitly. |
| Learning Process | Memorization of rules and vocabulary. | Practice through communication and tasks. |
| Materials Used | Classical texts, literature, and translation exercises. | Real-life situations, dialogues, role-plays. |
| Assessment | Written tests focusing on translation and grammar accuracy. | Oral and written tasks emphasizing communication. |
In short, while GTM is more traditional and focuses on grammatical accuracy and translation, CLT aims at practical communication skills and real-life language use. The choice between these methods depends on the learners’ needs. GTM is suited for those aiming for deep grammar knowledge, and CLT is suited for those focusing on effective communication.