suggestopedia

Characteristics

Characteristics

Georgi Lozanov developed this method to eradicate the grammar based-left brain approach of learning a foreign language. He introduced new components of suggestion techniques and relaxation to learning.

This was a new approach to accelerate learning.

The teacher is enterprising and responsible for presenting in class a large amount of information while taking away learning obstacles and student's inhibition.

Students listen, watch and then perform the material taught in class.

Target language instructions/ MT

Cheerful classrooms.

Soothing background music.

Positive suggestion by teacher.

Printed TL dialogues with MT translation.

Vocabulary and grammar notes.

Reading of dialogues by teacher.

Rhythm and intonation matched to music.

Based on dialogues, Q&A, games, song.

Drama.

Lesson Plan

Lesson Plan

The lesson of Suggestopedia consisted of three phases:

Deciphering:

The teacher introduces the grammar and lexis of the content. In most materials the foreign language text is on the left half of the page with a translation on the right half, i.e. meanings are conveyed via the mother tongue

Concert session:

In the active session, the teacher reads the text at a normal speed, sometimes intoning some words, and the students follow. In the passive session, the students relax and listen to the teacher reading the text calmly. Baroque music is played in the background.

Elaboration:

The students finish off what they have learned with dramas, songs, and games.

There are six main components:

AUTHORITY People remember best and are most influenced by information coming from an authoritative source.

INFANTILIZATION Authority is also used to suggest a teacher-student relation like that of parent to child. In the child's role the learner takes part in role playing, games, songs, and gymnastic exercises that help the self-confidence, spontaneity and receptivity. (Bancroft 1972)

DOUBLE-PLAN The learner learns not only from the effect of direct instruction but from the environment in which the instruction takes place. The bright decor of the classroom, the musical background, the shape of the chairs, and the personality of the teacher are considered essentials.

INTONATION, RHYTHM AND CONCERT PSEUDO-PASSIVENESS

Both intonation and rhythm are coordinated with a musical background. The musical background helps to induce a relaxed attitude.

Cons

Teacher

Out-of-time

Authoritarian

Teacher centered

Pseudo-science evidence

Childish

The students only receive input by listening, reading and musical- emotional backing.

Nowadays some of the most important characteristics of Suggestopedia , that can be used are the decoration, furniture, arrangement of the classroom and the use of music and songs to create a nice atmosphere to motivate students.Even dance and practice some movement activities.

as well as the use of some Language materials: flashcards, posters, decorated doors, drama texts, role play texts are some ideas that can be used in language classes in general and to benefit learning.

Conclusion