Theory & Practice in ELT

Theory and practice are closely intertwined in the field of English Language Teaching (ELT). Theory provides the foundation for understanding the principles and concepts of language learning and teaching, while practice is the application of these principles and concepts in the classroom.

Theoretical frameworks in ELT include linguistic theories, psychological theories, and sociocultural theories. These theories provide insights into the nature of language, how it is acquired, and how it is best taught. For example, linguistic theories such as Chomsky's theory of Universal Grammar suggest that all languages share a common underlying structure, while psychological theories such as Krashen's Input Hypothesis propose that input is the key to language acquisition.

On the other hand, practice in ELT refers to the actual implementation of these theories in the classroom. For example, a teacher who has an understanding of the Input Hypothesis might use authentic materials in the classroom to provide learners with input that is at the right level for their proficiency.

Effective ELT requires both a strong theoretical foundation and practical implementation. A good teacher must have a deep understanding of the principles of language learning and teaching, but must also be able to adapt and apply them to the specific needs and contexts of their students.

In summary, Theory and Practice in ELT are closely related, theory provides the foundation of understanding the principles and concepts of language learning and teaching, while practice refers to the application of these principles and concepts in the classroom. A good teacher must have a deep understanding of the theory but also the ability to adapt it to the specific needs and context of their students.