The deductive methods for learning English has been used by TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) teachers. Using this method students are taught grammer rules and the structure of English by the teacher. This is done by using lectures, textbooks and other materials. Students then practice the rules through managed activities. Then students participate in a large range of activities using other elements of the English language. By starting with the rules, student gain a deep understanding of English. (see ref 1)
The inducutive method uses the opposite appraoch as the deductive method. This technique allows students to learn by inferring the rule through managed discovery. The teacher provides students with the means of finding the rule by presenting the basics of the language as examples. The students then are left to discover the rule for themselves. Students find the rule through continued exposure to the examples. Although criticized by traditionalists who state that the deductive method is faster, this method of teaching English allows student to explore the language.(see ref 1)
Students may learn English in a manner that children often learn their native of first language: through listening, speaking, reading and writing, respectively. Students listen to the teacher say a word, then repeat it for themselves. Students also read and writing in English. Beginning with numbers and the alphabet is generally the best option for new learners. The IPA (international phonetic alphabet) may be used at this time to help students understand the sounds they are learning. Students also practice positioning their mouths to say English words. Using a set schudule in the classroom can help make learning more effective. (see ref 3)
Another way for students to learn English in the classroom is to have them speak only English in the classroom. This may be done in a class in students' native country or students may attend classes in an English speaking country, or the students may participate in a program in which they stay in the US but live in an environment where they learn the language outside the classroom, as in the Concordia Language Village (see ref 5). Either way, being forced to use the language daily may help students learn it faster and be more comfortable with its idiosyncrasies. This method may be the most effective when students already have a basic understanding of the language, but need more practice with speaking and comprehension.