Education of the republic of uzbekistan termiz state university department of english language and literature

Teaching through visuals and activities

Teaching English to very young learners (hereinafter referred to as YL) has been a challenge for many teachers.When we say YL, we refer to children of 4-5 years old. It is widely accepted by teachers that teaching very young learners is not like teaching adults as they have some particular physical and behavioural characteristics. Even if some teachers haven’t taught this age range, just draw your attention on your general knowledge of the 4-5 years olds you know. Think of them as learners, as first language learners and then as learners of English.

There is a big difference between young learners themselves. What children of four can do is not the same of what children of five can do.

Some children develop gradually, others in leaps and bounds. It is not possible to say that at the age of five they can all do the same things. But it is possible to point out some characteristics of VYL which teachers should be aware of and take into account in their teaching. Therefore, in order to teach them effectively, teachers should recognize these differences of the age, use the most suitable techniques and activities in the classroom. In addition, as it is a demanding and challenging task, young learners need to be provided with an atmosphere which will help to stimulate their imagination and creativity through various activities appropriate to the world they live in.