Unpacking Language Awareness in Language Teaching

Roles and Challenges

Abstract

This study explores Language Awareness (LA) and its significance in language teaching. LA, a concept developed since the 1990s, plays a vital role in language learning and teaching. It involves recognizing language's nature, cultural ties, forms, and ideological implications. Teaching Language Awareness (TLA) is crucial for educators, especially within different teaching methods like "focus-on-form," "focus-on formS," and "focus-on-meaning." Challenges for educators in diverse contexts are discussed. The study addresses issues like the importance of subject-matter knowledge and educators' sensitivity to learner development. It emphasizes observation to identify language-related difficulties. Additionally, it highlights the gap between teacher education and classroom application, influenced by educator motivation and perceptions. In conclusion, this study advocates TLA's importance, identifies common challenges, and calls for further research on integrating LA into diverse teaching approaches.