Keywords
language acquisition
Puerto Rico
English
How to Cite
Abstract
After up to 13 years of English instruction, many of the best and brightest students cannot form a simple, clear and correct utterance. Why? Most observers have focused on historical, political, cultural and sociological explanations. There are pedagogical reasons, as well. This paper examines effective strategies for language learning, which might not be in widespread use in Puerto Rico. The linguistic distinction between productive and receptive language illustrates that effective communication is possible —on a high level of mastery— without using every syntactical feature. What are the necessary conditions for learning a language? How can we best provide those conditions? What conditions accelerate student learning? Which linguistic features are indispensable, which are unnecessary? In today‘s world, English is a useful tool for everyone if we systematically identify the key elements, provide the needed input, create the appropriate conditions, students will more easily learn to communicate simply, clearly and correctly.
How to cite:
De Jesús, S. C. (2011). Strategies for teaching English effectively in Puerto Rico. Pedagogía, 42(1), 33-51. Retrieved from https://revistas.upr.edu/index.php/educacion/article/view/16594
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