The deductive method relies on reasoning, analyzing, and comparing. Teachers would like to use the method to teach grammar. What weaknesses and merits does the method have?
(1) Weaknesses: it teaches grammar in an isolated way; little attention is paid to meaning; practice is often mechanical.
(2) Merits: First, it could be very successful with selected and motivated students. Second, it could save time when students are confronted with a grammar rule which is complex but which has to be learned. Third, it may help increase students’ confidence in those examinations which are written with accuracy as the main criterion of success.