How to Teach Prepositions with TPR

Total Physical Response, or TPR, is an educational technique developed by Dr. James J. Asher to help people learn foreign languages. As the name suggests, the technique focuses on using physical movement to teach word meanings. Dr. Asher claims the concepts can be used for all languages, including sign language for the deaf, and with learners of all ages and abilities. Asher's system can be used to teach specific elements of grammar, such as prepositions, one of the most difficult aspects of English for non-native speakers to master, because it creates a learning environment that encourages immediate understanding and retention.

Assess knowledge

Ask students to tell you what they know first. See if someone can give you a definition of the term and some examples. While a very-low level group will likely have no understanding, those who have studied English in other countries may have a good understanding of the term, although they may not use the words correctly. Ask questions like, "Where is your bag? Where is the clock?"

List

List the most commonly used prepositions on pieces of paper or on the board. Ask students to give definitions if they can. If not, define them yourself and be sure to give a demonstration to explain the term. For example, you might stand in the doorway and announce that you are "in the doorway, beside the coat rack."

TPR-B

TPR with Body means you get the students moving. Give instructions using prepositions and have groups of about six students follow them. You might tell students to put their books under a chair, put their hands on their knees, or stand near the window.

TPR-P

TPR with Pictures involves the instructor describing a scene and the students drawing it from that description. Again, focus on the prepositions in the picture. The student results don't have to be great pictures; check to see that they have placed the objects in the places you described. When they are finished, compare the student drawings with the original picture.

TPR-S

TPR-Storytelling requires students to explain a concept or narrate an event. Have students demonstrate how something works, like a piece of equipment or a small appliance, or they might tell a story of an interesting event or tradition. Focus on the proper preposition use.

Physicality

TPR is considered particularly effective for those who have very little language base since it is based on physical movement, but it may be used for more advanced concepts like preposition use. As you give instructions, avoid emphasizing the prepositions in verbal sentences; students should be able to recognize the terms in normal stress and intonation.

References

John J. Asher. "The Total Physical Response." Tprsource.com.

Reid Wilson. "Maximize Your Learning Through TPR." Msu.edu.

Margaret Silver, Barbara Adelman and Elisabeth Price. "Total Physical Response (TPR): A Curriculum for Adults." English Language and Literacy Center, St. Louis, MO. Springinstitute.org.