In language learning, the four skills are important to be mastered by language learners; they are complementary to one another. But if a priority is given to each skill, which skill is the most important one?
The purpose of the communication exchange is essential. For example, writing will be the main skill to be mastered by a translator, while speaking will be imperative for an interpreter.
Thank you, Maria for your thoughtful answer. As I see them, all the four skills are
important and complementary.
These 4 skills in SLA can be divided into passive (reading and listening) and active (writing and speaking). Generally, the passive skills emerge first and the active skills come along a little later. This, however, depends on the kind of class. In conversational L2 classes, there is very little focus on reading and writing. In addition, if the language learner comes from an L1 with a different alphabet from the L2, this will present greater challenges for reading and writing.
But to best try to answer your question, I would rate listening comprehension as the most valuable skill in SLA. Learners can begin hearing the language and processing it before using the other three skills - especially in a communicative class environment. And with TPR activities, they can demonstrate their comprehension without having to speak, read or write.
I totally agree with both Joanna and Maria and can add that, in my country, the new national EFL curriculum stresses on speaking (04.30 hours/week) and writing (03 h/w) for 1st and 2 year BA. While listening and reading have disappeared from the curriculum, they are acquired all throughout the other modules in particular Oral Expression and Written Expression.
Thank you very much,Bachir Bouhania for your answer. Listening and reading are also important skills that need to be mastered by foreign language learners whether as separate skills or through other modules. Best regards. Hazim
I agree with Marwah. It depends on the contexts in which the learner will need to use the language. A needs analysis should always be performed to try to determine contexts of use before deciding on content or methodological issues relating to a given course. We should also distinguish between skills work as end goals and skills work as a means to an end: the former involves developing the skills that a learner will need to communicate in English in the contexts that are relevant to him/her; the latter involves using a given skill to help the learner to acquire more English. Writing tasks, for example, can be a good way of helping learners to focus on grammar and to broaden their vocabulary range. The time spent on this may also have a pay-off in terms of the students' spoken language. However, in most General English teaching contexts, the majority of writing tasks should be performed at home in order to free up class time for speaking practice.
Thank you very much Chris for your detailed excellent answer. Hazim
Hi,
The choice might differ from person to person. Lets say a salesperson only need to master speaking and listening skill because s/he is supposed to deal or communicate verbally with people in his/her day to day activities. However, if a person is to work in a formal setting such as an office, s/he has to master writing skill as well.
- - The ability to speak (conversation) one of the most important linguistic communication skills is the second skill
Of language skills, through which people interact with each other in life situations
Different.
The study of conversation is one of the manifestations of the attention of sociologists in modern times,
It is the first style of spoken speech, being based on the language of dialogue and verbal exchange in the process
Thank you very much, Dr. Ali for your thoughtful answer. Best regards. Hazim.
I would say speaking skill. Some can speak a language but can't read or write.
Thank you, Professor Amir and Vishnu for your answers. I agree with you that priority is mainly devoted to the speaking skill. I agree with Professor Amir that there are many people who can speak well but they are unable to write. In addition, there is a principle in language that it is basically oral. The writing skill is a later skill that is learned by people when they grow older.
Hi, I agree with most of the answers, and would like to add that all four skills are important for a language learner. Yet, the speaking skill is the easiest since based on hearing without reading, but reading is quite important for someone who needs to write since s/he will need to know the structure of the language, the vocabulary and so on.
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