Identification of the Problems

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CHAPTER II LITERATURE REVIEW

This chapter presents the theoretical review, review of related studies, and the conceptual framework of the research. In the theoretical review and review of related studies, some theories underlying the research are examined by the researcher. In the conceptual framework, the researcher relates the theories to the research.

A. Theoretical Review 1.

Teaching English in Vocational School a. Theories of Language Learning and Teaching As a foreign language, English in Indonesia is mainly used in the educational and multinational business setting. Even so, most students are exposed to English only in the class except for select few. This fact is an important factor which will determine what approach in teaching a foreign language that can be used best in Indonesia. According to Richards and Renandya 2002: 20-21, there are three different views of language: structural view, functional view, and interactional view. According to the structural view, language is considered as a system which consists of structures as the elements to represent message to be understood by the receiver, he explains. Here, language teachers emphasize on the mastery of linguistic elements including phonological units phonemes, grammatical units clauses, phrases, sentences, grammatical operations adding, shifting, joining, or transforming elements, and lexical items function and structure words. On the other hand, functional view defines language as “... a vehicle for the expression of functional meanin g.” It is implied that language is used as a tool to convey meaning in communication. The main goal of communication is to get the meaning across and language is used to achieve that. This view considers grammar as not the only important element in language learning. Language learning materials are often categorized based on the meaning and function, in preference to the structure and grammar. The activities should have communicative purpose so students will be encouraged to get the message across while doing those activities. Robinson in Richards and Rodgers 2001: 21 also added that the revival of ESP is urged by this theoretical view on functional account of learner needs. It implies that there should be some study to formulate what functional language the students need to learn in order to prepare them for using the language in the specific professional situation. The third view of language, the interactional view, defines language as “a tool for the creation and maintenance of social relations”. Language in the interactional view carries two important tasks, i.e. “as a vehicle for the realization of interpersonal relations” and “for the performance of social transactions between individuals.” Interactional view of language puts more focus on the patterns of moves, acts, negotiation, and interaction in