Communicative Language Teaching (CLT)

Developing Second Language Skills

CLT Page

The Communicative Approach to language teaching emphasizes communication and interaction as the main goals of learning. CLT focuses on the use of language for real-life communication rather than just rote memorization of grammar rules and vocabulary.

Key Principles of the Communicative Language Teaching are:

Communication is Key: The primary goal is to enable learners to communicate effectively in real-life situations, both orally and in writing.

2. Authentic Language Use: Emphasizes the use of authentic materials and real-life contexts to teach language, making the learning experience more practical and meaningful.

3. Interactive Learning: Learners engage in communicative activities and tasks that encourage interaction with others, promoting active participation and engagement.

4. Meaningful Contexts: Language is learned through meaningful contexts, such as discussing a topic, or solving a problem, or negotiating meaning, rather than through isolated drills.

5. Task-Based Learning: Lessons are structured around tasks that require learners to use language for a specific purpose, such as giving directions, making a phone call, or discussing a topic.

6. Cultural Competence: Language learning is linked to an understanding of the cultural contexts in which the language is used, promoting intercultural communication skills.

The Communicative Approach has been widely adopted and has influenced language teaching methodologies across the globe.

It has fostered a learner-centered and communicative language learning environment.

CLT Apporach

"Engage, Study & Activate"

The ESA Methodology--Engage, Study & Activate

ESA Methodology

ESA is a modern take on the communicative approach and has become one of the most widely used methods in English language teaching today.

It gives teachers a flexible, structured way to run lessons that keep students engaged, motivated, and actively learning.

Many experienced trainers agree that ESA is one of the most effective and beginner-friendly teaching methods out there—which is why it’s a core part of most teacher training programs.

The video above shows how easy it is to build a lesson using the ESA method in action.

The Grammar Question

Do I need to know grammar to teach English?

Not in the way you might think.

You don’t need to be a grammar expert or memorize every rule, but you do need a solid understanding of how English works so you can explain it clearly and confidently when needed. Vantage's TEFL course will give you a solid grammatical foundation.

How important is grammar in English teaching?

That’s where the communicative methodology comes in. Instead of teaching grammar in isolation (like dry drills and worksheets), it teaches grammar in context. You’ll help students use grammar naturally as part of real conversations and meaningful communication.

So yes, grammar is part of it—but it’s taught in a way that’s practical, engaging, and student-centered. You’ll learn how to make grammar come alive in the classroom.