TESOL 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Total Physical Response, often abbreviated as TPR, is an approach to language teaching that combines physical movement with language learning. This method is based on the idea that language acquisition is more effective when learners are actively involved in the process. The approach uses commands and physical actions to reinforce language concepts, helping learners to connect language to physical experience.

For instance, when a teacher gives a command like "jump" or "turn around," students respond physically by performing the action. This kinesthetic involvement not only engages the students but also aids memory retention through the association of action with language. The effectiveness of TPR lies in its ability to lower the affective filter, making students feel more comfortable and reducing anxiety as they practice new vocabulary and phrases.

Understanding the term "Total Physical Response" is important because it highlights the role of the body in learning and emphasizes the natural way humans acquire language, especially in the early stages. By using movement, TPR accommodates various learning styles and helps keep students engaged, which is crucial in a language learning environment.