Total Physical Response, or TPR, was developed by Dr. James J. Asher. It is based upon the way that children learn their mother tongue. Children and parents engage in "language-body conversations" in which the youngster physically reacts to the parent's instructions. "Look at mommy" or "Give me the ball" are commands that the child obeys. Before the child actually begins to speak on their own, these discussions last for several months. The child is absorbing all of the language, including the rhythms and sounds, even though it is unable to talk at this moment. The youngster eventually reproduces the language pretty naturally once it has sufficiently decoded it. TPR aims to replicate this effect in the classroom.

How can we use it in class?

The teacher assumes the role of a parent in the classroom. The first thing she does is pronounce a word ('jump') or a phrase ('look at the board') and then do something. After the teacher gives the order, every pupil follows through. This can be extended by requesting the children to repeat the term as they perform the activity after a few repetitions. Once the kids are comfortable using the word or phrase, you can invite them to guide the class or each other.

It is more effective for students to stand in a circle around the teacher, and you can even encourage them to move around while performing the task.

When should we use it?

TPR can be used to teach and practise many things.

• Vocabulary connected with actions
• Tenses past/present/future and continuous aspects
• Classroom language
• Imperatives/Instructions
• Storytelling

It can be adapted for all kinds of teaching situations.

Why should we use it in the classroom?

• It can really stir things up in the classroom and is a lot of fun for the pupils. It improves the tempo and atmosphere.
• It is incredibly unforgettable. It truly aids pupils in remembering words or phrases.
• Kinaesthetic learners who must participate actively in class will benefit from it.
• Both large and small classes can use it. It doesn't really matter how many students you have as long as you are prepared to take the lead, the students will follow.
• It works well with mixed-ability classes. The physical actions get across the meaning effectively so that all the students are able to understand and use the target language.
• It doesn't require a lot of preparation or materials. As long as you are clear what you want to practise (a rehearsal beforehand can help), it won't take a lot of time to get ready.
• It is very effective with teenagers and young learners.
• It involves both left- and right-brained learning.

Are there any disadvantages with using TPR?

• Students who are not used to such things might find it embarrassing. This can be the case initially, but I have found that if the teacher is prepared to perform the actions, the students feel happier about copying. Also, the students are in groups and don't have to perform for the whole class. This pleasure is reserved for the teacher.
• It is only really suitable for beginner levels.
• Whilst it is clear that it is far more useful at lower levels because the target language lends itself to such activities I have also used it successfully with Intermediate and Advanced levels. You need to adapt the language accordingly.