External Purpose of Language Teaching vs. Internal Purpose of Language Teaching

Attribute	External Purpose of Language Teaching	Internal Purpose of Language Teaching
Focus	Communication with others	Personal growth and development
Goal	Acquiring language skills for practical use	Enhancing cognitive abilities and self-expression
Outcome	Ability to interact in different social contexts	Increased self-awareness and confidence
Emphasis	Functional use of language	Individual learning and reflection

External Purpose of Language Teaching

The external purpose of language teaching refers to the practical reasons for learning a language, such as for communication in a professional setting or for travel. When teaching a language for external purposes, the focus is often on vocabulary and grammar that will be useful in real-life situations. Students may be motivated by the desire to advance their careers or to connect with people from different cultures.

One key attribute of teaching a language for external purposes is the emphasis on practical skills. Teachers may prioritize teaching phrases and expressions that are commonly used in specific contexts, such as business meetings or tourist interactions. This approach helps students feel more confident in their ability to communicate effectively in real-world situations.

Another attribute of teaching a language for external purposes is the focus on cultural awareness. In order to communicate successfully in a foreign language, students must understand the cultural norms and customs of the people they are interacting with. Language teachers may incorporate cultural lessons into their curriculum to help students navigate these differences.

Additionally, teaching a language for external purposes often involves the use of technology and multimedia resources. Teachers may incorporate videos, podcasts, and online exercises to provide students with a more interactive and engaging learning experience. These resources can help students practice their listening and speaking skills in a more dynamic way.

Finally, the assessment methods used in teaching a language for external purposes may focus on practical skills and real-life scenarios. Students may be asked to participate in role-plays, simulations, or presentations to demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively in the target language. These assessments help students apply their language skills in a meaningful way.

Internal Purpose of Language Teaching

The internal purpose of language teaching refers to the cognitive and personal benefits of learning a language, such as improved memory, critical thinking skills, and cultural empathy. When teaching a language for internal purposes, the focus is often on developing a deeper understanding of language structure and usage, as well as fostering a love for language learning.

One key attribute of teaching a language for internal purposes is the emphasis on linguistic proficiency. Teachers may focus on teaching grammar rules, sentence structure, and vocabulary in a way that helps students understand the underlying principles of the language. This approach can help students develop a more analytical and systematic approach to language learning.

Another attribute of teaching a language for internal purposes is the focus on cognitive benefits. Learning a new language has been shown to improve memory, problem-solving skills, and multitasking abilities. Language teachers may incorporate activities that challenge students' cognitive abilities, such as puzzles, games, and creative writing exercises.

Additionally, teaching a language for internal purposes often involves the exploration of literature and culture. Teachers may introduce students to famous works of literature, films, and music from the target language's culture to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the language. This exposure can help students develop a sense of cultural empathy and global awareness.

Finally, the assessment methods used in teaching a language for internal purposes may focus on language proficiency and critical thinking skills. Students may be asked to analyze and interpret texts, engage in debates, or write essays to demonstrate their understanding of the language and its cultural context. These assessments help students develop their analytical and communication skills.