Why this approach?

Many who try to learn a language on their own find they have a difficult time.

They might try a computer program.

But language is innately a living, human endeavor and no computer program can truly take the place of human interraction. Besides, I personally do not know of a single individual who became truly fluent in a language simply by using a computer program. Computer programs can assist with some vocabulary acquisition and perhaps some learned phrases, but rarely prepare a person to communicate with a native speaker.

They might try a textbook.

But textbooks are basically print versions of computer programs. Many use a tired form of rote memorization and focus more on grammar principles than on acquiring the language. Besides, one still needs a teacher even with a textbook. Did you take a language back in high school using a textbook? How fluent are you now?

They might hire a native speaker.

Now you're getting closer. If you can find a really talented native speaker who knows how languages are acquired naturally, you might fare well. However, many native speakers don't understand the struggles that native English speakers have in learning German and if they have no other training, they usually don't know how to teach beyond numbers, colors and basic Kindergarten lessons.

The natural way to learn German . . .

What is different?

This approach goes back to the way you naturally picked up language.

First language acquisition.

How did you learn your first language? A computer program? A textbook? Flash cards? Grammar drills? No! Mommy simply spoke to you and you eventually picked it up. There was no studying involved. If you didn't understand, she would try to use different words (perhaps simpler words) but not a grammatical explanation. The only thing both of you cared about was communication.

The role of grammar.

Following the natural approach, listening comes first. Then speaking. Later comes reading and writing. Basic sentence structure comes with natural use. Grammar comes much later, such as when to use who and whom. If the focus is on communication, grammar is not ignored but is certainly not the driving force of my approach. Only if a grammar mistake impedes communication would I address a grammar topic . . . and then I try to get back to communication quickly.

The affective filter.

Learning a new language can feel very intimidating to a lot of students . . . even adults! The so-called affective filter puts a protective block around the psyche to protect the learner from any embarassment. The best way to acquire a new language is to relax! Don't worry about making mistakes. It's part of the process. My approach makes the message king. Message matters over form. To help with lowering that affective filter, my approach seeks to ensure success of my students, use lots of humor and avoid calling out mistakes. Students then find my lessons less stressful and can acquire the language more quickly.

Homework and tests.

Generally I can tell very quickly if my students are following me and can adjust my pacing to meet their needs. There really is no need for formal testing. Did your Mommy give you formal tests as you were learning your first language? Homework is another similar issue. You probably didn't get any homework from your Mommy as you were learning your first language. I believe a lot of homework is useless busywork. However, there can be some beneficial homework such as reading a short passage or watching a German YouTube video. So-called "input" homework is really the most beneficial. However, if a student really does want to go beyond the call of duty, we might be able to come up with some ideas.

What do my lessons look like?

These are some of the typical things you will see in my lessons.

Making German comprehensible.

The simplicity of my approach is simply to speak German in a way to make it comprehensible. If I say it and you understand it, that's all there is to it. You will pick up the language quickly and easily. It will be simple and relaxing. Most of my class time is spent simply speaking German. I tell stories, crack jokes, make commentaries, explain culture all in German.

Embedding culture.

If I only need to speak German and make it comprehensible, then I can essentially speak about any topic. If your group is, for example, into dairy farming, I can address that topic much more. But I will also embed culture as I point out some differences in how German-speaking countries might approach that topic. Back to the dairy example, I would certainly talk about the famous purple Milka Kuh of the Milka chocolate brand. I also search for YouTube videos, readings online and other sources that might give authenticity to what I am teaching.

Humor.

As mentioned earlier, humor is one of the best methods to reduce the affective filter and allow students to acquire the language in a stress-free environment. I often use humor to accomplish this goal. My lessons often end up with lots of laughter as I tell jokes, funny stories, anecdotes etc. We often act out stories and allow students to show their own sense of humor as they emote their parts. This is usually not a static sit-down class. We tend to be active. A small note: Humor can be sensitive to some. Although I try not to offend, a humorous approach can be touchy around over-sensitive families. More about that here.