The function of the target language (English) is not only as the content materials, but also as the means of communication during the teaching and learning process. As the target language in the class is English, the teacher should use it as often as possible. The students will take this as the advantages if she/he often speaks in the target language.
The first advantage is the students will be...
familiar with the new expression if they often hear. Some expression like “ So good is very good” and “I’m vario, what about you ?” at first are strange for many students. Gradually they familiar with the words because they hear from television almost every minute. Finally they can use them in another situation. From the example above, it can be concluded that language is a matter of habit. If the students often hear, they will be able to use it in their communication.
The use of the target language in the classroom will encourage the students practise their predicting skill. As Halliwell (1994) mentions that this contributes to the learning process by encouraging them to trust their instinct to predict meaning in spite of limited linguistic understanding, providing an element of indirect learning in that the students are not concentrating to but the brain is processing it nonetheless, confirming that language is something they actually use “for real” not just something they do exercises.
The students will get benefit if the teacher speaks more English as it will increase the amount of exposure. The more often they hear the language, the better result they will get. They can get example from the teacher on how to use the target language in real situation.
Finally, using English more often in the class will build students self confidence. The students will be more confidence if they find many persons speak using target language. Moreover, they know that English is the only language in the class. The teacher does need to worry if the students make mistakes. It is very normal mix language or different pronounciation. It is the teacher’s job to correct them by giving good models.
In summary, there are some reasons why the teacher should use English more often during the teaching and learning process to elementary school students, as it has many advantages. The teacher can help the students understand the language by adapting the language, selecting the words, controlling the language, such as pronounciation, the volume and duration of speaking, as well as gestures, facial expressions, action. Which one the English teachers choose : “ Having students who can only do the exercises in the book “ or “ Having students who can communicate using English actively ?”
So, teachers, do the right job for your students. Good job.
