The PPP model of language teaching

In this post, I will talk a little bit about the PPP model of language teaching and why I use it in my classes. PPP stands for Presentation, Practice, and Production. A lesson designed within this framework works in the following way:

First, I choose a topic, let's say the second conditional. Then, I present this topic by showing its features. This part of the presentation requires explicit teaching. For example, I show the structure of the second conditional followed by an example:

Structure: if + simple past, +would + base form. Ex: If she studied (simple past), she would pass (base form) the test.

After teaching the form, I show the meaning and usage of the second conditional, which is that the second conditional is used to talk about hypothetical situations. For example, a situation in which a student does not study but should do so.

Now that the student knows what it is, it is time to practice it. Thus, I prepare an exercise where he can get some practice, but with help. For example:

Complete the sentences:

If she _______ (study), she_______ (pass the test).

Answer: If she studied, she would pass the test.

This is a very effective exercise because the student can get some controlled practice. This is the moment when I help him the most if he makes mistakes. I also go over the structure again if necessary.

Finally, there is the production phase. This phase is more flexible, and I won't correct the student so much now. My goal here is to let him develop FLUENCY! So I let him talk and only correct him afterwards.

How does this phase work?

I usually ask a question, such as "What would you do if you were rich?". Then, the student answers the question just like he would do in a real-life situation.

This is the PPP model in short. A method used by the best language schools around the world to teach not only English but also many other languages.

I hope you liked it!