Fluency first: How teaching functions boosts speaking skills

In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, Luan and Mairead delve into the importance of teaching functions in language learning. They discuss how functions are prefabricated chunks of language that enhance fluency and flexibility in communication. The conversation covers effective teaching strategies, including the PPP approach (presentation, practice, production), and emphasizes the significance of understanding meaning, form, and phonology. The hosts also highlight the value of creative practice through role plays, which allow students to apply their learning in real-life contexts. The episode concludes with encouragement for teachers to embrace teaching functions to improve their students' speaking abilities.