Delphi module

6.1
The objectives of oral work

This section looks at the teaching of oral skills from the perspective of the tutor. It may be that you have already hesitated to read this module, on the basis that you have no involvement with oral classes. Many departments offer whole-language courses, adopting a completely integrative approach, but many more have language courses with separate 'oral expression' classes, taught entirely by a native speaker, often a colloquial assistant. This first activity invites you to reflect on the current practice within your institution (or indeed within your own department, as of course practice often varies from department to department), and on your own beliefs relating to the teaching of speaking.

Activity 1

Which of these statements apply to the beliefs that inform current practice in your department / institution, and which to your own beliefs?

Speaking should always be taught by a native speaker.
A class conducted in the target language (TL) is not necessarily an 'oral' class.
Speaking skills should not be integrated with other skills.
Speaking requires no special skills, unlike written language.
Speaking and listening go hand in hand so should be taught together.
It really isn't necessary to 'teach' speaking.
It is not possible to 'teach' speaking skills.