In Total Physical Response, what is the teacher’s primary mode of instruction?

In Total Physical Response (TPR), the teacher’s primary mode of instruction is through physical commands and responses. This method emphasizes the use of physical movement to help learners acquire language skills. In TPR, teachers give commands that require students to perform actions, such as “stand up,” “turn around,” or “jump,” which engages students in a kinesthetic way. This approach fosters language acquisition by creating a connection between language and physical activity, making it easier for learners to remember and understand new vocabulary and structures.

The use of physical responses taps into the natural ways in which children learn, and it allows for a low-stress environment where students can learn through movement and play. This hands-on engagement helps reinforce comprehension and retention. In contrast, written communication, oral questioning, or visual aids serve different functions in language instruction but do not encapsulate the essence of TPR as focused on the integration of movement with language learning.