Definition

Noun: A method or system for learning a language that emphasizes intensive practice of listening and speaking skills, often through repetitive drills and pattern practice, before focusing on reading and writing.

Usage

This term is used to describe a specific pedagogical approach to language learning. It is primarily an academic or technical term used in the fields of linguistics, language teaching, and education.

Examples: * The language program was based on the principles of audio lingual acquisition. * Audio lingual acquisition relies heavily on mimicry and memorization. * Critics of audio lingual acquisition argue it neglects meaningful communication.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often contrasted with other language acquisition methods, such as the communicative approach or grammar-translation method.
• It can be used to describe the historical development of language teaching methodologies: "The audio lingual method was dominant in the mid-20th century."

Variants and Related Words

• Audio lingual method (n): A more common term for the same teaching system. This variant is often used interchangeably with "audio lingual acquisition."
• ALM (n): A common abbreviation for "Audio Lingual Method."

Synonyms

• Aural-oral approach (n): A very similar method emphasizing listening and speaking.
• Structural approach (n): Highlights the method's focus on grammatical structures through drills.

Related Phrases

• Pattern drill (n): A key technique used in audio lingual acquisition where learners repeat and manipulate grammatical patterns.
• Mimicry-memorization (n): Describes the core learning process in this method.

Noun

1. system of language acquisition focusing intensively on listening and speaking