How to Teach a Foreign Language

by Otto Jespersen, Sophia Yhlen-Olsen Bertelsen (contributor)

"How to Teach a Foreign Language" by Otto Jespersen is a comprehensive guide that explores innovative methods for teaching foreign languages, particularly focusing on English instruction. Jespersen, a distinguished professor at the University of Copenhagen, advocates for a dynamic approach to language teaching, emphasizing the use of connected texts, idiomatic expressions, and engaging activities to enhance students' language acquisition. The book provides practical strategies for educators to create immersive and effective learning experiences, balancing linguistic complexity and vocabulary acquisition. With a strong emphasis on phonetics, comprehension, and natural expression, Jespersen's work offers valuable insights for educators seeking to improve their language teaching techniques.

179 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[Tashateufel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good work about teaching a foreign language in a class.

[Scheherazade · Rating 3 out of 5]

After more than 120 years, it no longer seems novel.

[Linda (un)Conventional Bookworms · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am always amazed when books, especially books on didactics and pedagogy, written over a hundred years ago can still be used today. Of course, some tweaking is necessary, but I can see several things I can apply to teaching English right now.

[profprofessorson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Didn't find anything too earth-shaking. But then again, all of my foreign language instruction post-dated this book by a significant period of time.