Unit 2-Communicative approach

The major focus of learning any language is to be able to use that language. The prime focus of communicative approach is also on enabling learners to use the language .That means they are to be able to communicate in the language. The communicative approach centers on the development of language skills that is Listening, Speaking, Reading and writing. This approach of language learning is recently used for teaching English in India.

The characteristics of communicative view of language are

Language is a system for the expression of meaning.
The primary function of a language is to allow interaction and communication.
The structure of a language reflects its functional and communicative uses.
The primary units of language are not merely its grammatical and structural features, but categories of functional and communicative meaning.

In communicative language teaching meaning is paramount and not the structure of the language. Some of the principles of communicative language teaching are
Learners learn through using it to communicate
Authentic and meaningful communication should be the goal of classroom activities
Fluency is an important aspect of communication
Communication involves integration of different language skills
Learning is process of creative construction and involves trial and errors.

Merits of Communicative approach
It helps the learners to use the language which is the primary function of learning any language.
Helps the learners to develop their communication skills mainly listening and speaking
Lot of oral work is given importance so there is development of speech in Sanskrit.
It follows the pattern of first language learning according to which language is learnt through listening and speaking so resulting into better language learning
There is no undue stress given on grammar so learners can learn the language without fear of grammar
Fluency is given importance in learning the language. Accurate use of the language is not overstressed but appropriate use of the language with respect to the situation is given more importance.
There is freedom to use expressions in mother tongue in the form of vocabulary whenever necessary. In case of Sanskrit there can be use of Tatsam and Tadabhava words to make learners use Sanskrit for communication
Grammar follows communication in learning the language so learners do not feel burdensome in learning Sanskrit
It helps in creating a climate of Sanskrit in the classroom
It makes learning of language more joyful and interesting as learners learn the language not about the language

Demerits of Communicative approach
o Grammar is not given much importance so students might not be skillful in using correct language
o Reading and writing are not given importance as compare to listening and speaking
o In the absence of the basic language on the part of the learners, it will be difficult to teach the language through communicative activities.
o Especially with reference to teaching of Sanskrit , it will be difficult to teach through this approach as teachers themselves need to be competent to communicate in Sanskrit.The beauty of the perfection of Sanskrit is marred when grammar is not given importance