The PPP technique in teaching is a common way to introduce students to new words and concepts. This can be especially useful in the EFL classroom. The PPP method in English teaching is a three-step lesson plan and teaching approach that helps the student learn, understand and practice new vocabulary.
The three stages of a PPP lesson
There are three stages in a PPP TEFL lesson.
Firstly, the teacher presents the new word, an event which involves the presentation of pronunciation and spelling in context.
Next, the teacher allows the students to practice the new word in a controlled setting, making sure the student has understood the vocabulary and usage properly.
Lastly comes the production stage, where there is a period of less-controlled practice and an informal assessment of learning. This is where the students get chance to use the new word or phrase in an original way and to relate it to their knowledge and experiences.
These three stages of a PPP lesson help the student to consolidate the new word in their mental vocabulary bank.
The sequence of a PPP lesson in EFL teaching
This EFL teaching method of presentation, practice and production is an approach that follows a definite sequence:
- The teacher presents the new vocabulary and explains the form of the language in a meaningful context.
- The students practise this new vocabulary through controlled activities such as worksheets or question and answer activities to check comprehension.
- The students use or produce what they have learned in a communicative activity such as a role-play, communication game, or question and answer session.
Teaching English using the PPP technique
Each stage of the Presentation, Practice and Production lesson must be planned well to be effective. However, the PPP method in TEFL is a highly flexible approach to teaching and there are many different activities a teacher can employ for each stage.
Presentation can include mime, drawing and audio. In fact, it is a good idea to try to engage with the students’ different senses to get across the meaning of the new word, using visual, kinaesthetic (movement) and audio techniques.
It is also important to make sure that students have understood the new word before encouraging them to practise it. It is often fun and highly effective for students to play games to practise vocabulary and to produce it.
Current debate about the PPP technique in TEFL
In recent times, there has been increasing debate surrounding the PPP method of teaching, with many critics asking if teachers should be using the PPP technique so often in the EFL classroom.
Some critics of the PPP method in TEFL think it can be too formal and structured, with too little focus on student interaction. However, we think the PPP technique in EFL teaching offers a very flexible base from which to construct a lesson that is highly student-centred.
For ideas on ways to present new vocabulary and check comprehension, and activities which allow students to practice and produce their vocabulary, please browse this PPP teaching section.
- Is the PPP method old fashioned or is it still a useful and effective way to teach?
- Do you use the PPP technique in TEFL?
- What is your favourite way to present new vocabulary?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments box below.