Total Physical

Response (TPR)
 Total Physical Response
(TPR)

TPR is an approach to teaching a second

language, based on listening linked to
physical activities which are designed to
reinforce comprehension.
 Total Physical Response
(TPR)
INTRODUCTION

Total Physical Response (TPR) is a method developed by Dr. James

J. Asher to aid learning second languages.
The method relies on the assumption that when learning a second
or additional language, that language is internalized through a
process of code-breaking similar to first language development
Students respond to commands that require physical movement.
TPR is primarily intended for ESL teacher, although the method is
used in teaching other languages as well.
Learning needed to become more enjoyable and less stressful
LEARNING HYPOTHESES
– 1. An innate bio-program exists for language
learning that defines an optimal path for 1st and
2nd language development
– Brain lateralization defines different learning
functions in the left and right brain hemispheres
– Stress is viewed as affective filter – the lower the
stress, the greater the learning
TPR & The Natural Order
– 1. Children develop listening competence before they
develop the ability to speak. At early stages of 1st language
acquisition, they can understand complex utterances that
they cannot spontaneously produce or imitate.
– 2. Children’s ability in listening comprehension is acquired
because children are required to respond physically to
spoken language in the form of parental commands.
– 3. Once a foundation in listening comprehension is
established, speech evolves naturally and effortlessly.
Key Features of TPR
Key Features of TPR
Total Physical Response
(TPR)

– What is the connection to the classroom?

– TPR is not always dancing and singing songs!
Generally, we refer to body movement with
instruction to engage learners.
– Students learn by identifying a certain key
point to some action.
– TPR can be used for all curriculum, literacy,
science, math, and so on.
Total Physical Response
(TPR)

– Who benefits most from TPR?

– TPR seems to work effectively for children and adults.
There is no age barrier. The only setback is that if the
language training starts after puberty, the probability is
almost certain that one will have at least some accent
in speaking the second language, no matter how many
years one lives in the foreign country.
http://www.tprsource.com/asher.htm
– English speaking students who have little academic
reinforcement at home.
Total Physical Response
(TPR)

– Who benefits most (cont . . .)

– Struggling students
– Teachers are noticing growth in students
learning, and boosting the academic levels
in their classrooms.
Common / Typical
Techniques
 Total Physical Response (TPR)
Example of Activity

This is an example of an effective TPR activity that students can perform at

their seats. Each student has a kit such as the interior of a kitchen. Then you say
in the target language, "Put the man in front of the sink.“ With your play board
displayed so that it is clearly visible to the students, you place the man in the
kitchen of your kit and your students follow by performing the same action in
their kits.
 Total Physical Response (TPR)

Step by Step (steps for teaching TPR lesson)

1. Choose physical vocabulary,
- ex. Stand up, show me the door, (language
used in the classroom)
2. Introduce vocabulary gradually
- Start with 3 & randomly use
3. Drop the physical modeling
4. Add additional commands
 Total Physical Response (TPR)
Step by Step (steps for teaching TPR lesson)

5. Add additional responses

-Find new ways for students to display their
understanding of vocabulary, ex. draw picture
6. Play games for additional practice
- only when students gain confidence
7. Assess student progress & understanding
(easy to visually assess, make a checklist)
Learner Roles
Teacher’s Roles
Advantages of TPR

– Fun and Easy: Students enjoy activity!

– Simple TPR activities do not require a great deal of preparation
on the part of the teacher.
– TPR is inclusive and works well a class with mixed ability
levels.
– Good for kinesthetic learners who need to be active in class.
– Good tool for building vocabulary.
– Actions help build connections in the brain.
– Helps learners achieve fluency faster by immersing learners in
activities that involve them in situational language use.
– Good instructional practice for ESL’s in their silent period.
– Works well for child and adult learners.
Disadvantages of TPR

– Most useful for beginners.

– Preparation becomes an issue for teachers at higher levels.
– Students are not generally given the opportunity to express
their own thought in a creative manner.
– It is easy to over use TPR and begin to bore students.
– May limit teachers in term of scope of language that can be
addressed.
– Can be a major challenge for shy students.
– Use of TPR in teaching abstract language – activities can be
limited to the directly obvious, visible and physically “doable”