A gesture or sound is associated with each word, and repeated whenever the word is used. The class practices the new vocabulary until everyone is familiar with it. Once the class feels comfortable with the new words, the teacher assigns actors and actresses. Using the vocabulary, the students develop a story line, which they act out in front of the class. The story is retold three times to ensure that it is understood by everyone.
Most students find it extremely easy to remember the stories and vocabulary.
This way, students feel more confident about speaking the language. Students use bizarre, silly and exaggerated details in their stories, and this helps them remember it better, Mrs. Martin said. While students are having fun developing the wacky story lines, they are actually learning the language. TPRS is a great alternative to book work all the time, and the hand gestures help me remember more of the words. Junior Brenna Gallegos said.