Total Physical Response

Total Physical Response;

This unique method was developed by James Asher, and is described in many of his journal paper and in his book. Total Physical Response or TPR, consists basically of obeying commands given by instructor that involve an overt physical response . The instructor , for example, says "stand up " and the class stands up. The commands become more complex as the class stands up. The commands become more complex as the class progress, and Asher claims that it is quite possible to embed vast amount of syntax into the form of a command. Students speak only when they are ready, which usually occurs at round 1o hours of instruction, and consists of student commands. In the typical TPR class.

Asher lists the three principles of the TPR system;

1. Delay speech from students until understanding of spoken language has been extensively internalized.


2. Achieve understanding of spoken language through utterances by instructor in the imperative .


3. Expect that , at some point in the understanding of spoken language , students will indicate a readiness to talk.


Requirements for optimal input;

1. Comprehensible. TPR meets this requirements.


Best Regards
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