Part 3: Discussion of grammar points

Tutor asks: When should we use at / on / in? What is the difference between them?

Part 4: Writing Assignment

Write five sentences about five different activities you do (using at, on and in).

An inductive approach to learning means that the material can be presented before the rule is applied. First, we study the form. After studying the form, we can determine what the rule is regarding it. In the above example, learners can note that the preposition varies.

  • With specific numerical times (i.e. 7 o'clock), we use at.
  • With days of the week, we use on.
  • With months, we use in.
  • With seasons, we use in.

The Detail-orientated Learner 4

The detail-orientated learner is often very successful in formal learning situations. This learner generally does well in traditional classroom exercises (such as drills) and in testing situations that require analytical abilities. Some studies state that detailed-orientated learners can improve their pronunciation more quickly than holistic or whole picture learners.

A detail-orientated learner can also more readily learn language forms (or grammar) using a deductive approach. This means that this learner prefers to have the grammar rules specified before she does any exercises where she would need to use that grammatical form.

Things to consider when teaching rules deductively:

  • Keep explanations brief and simple.
  • Use charts and other visual aids.
  • Give clear examples.
  • Do not worry about exceptions to the rules.
  • When in doubt, tell the learner you will research it and answer her at the next session.

4H. Douglas Brown, Teaching by Principles: An Interactive Approach to Language Pedagogy. (White Plains, NY: Pearson Education, 1994), p.118. By permission of Pearson Education.