Sessions /
Free Conversation: A Legitimate Use of Class Time? #436

The notion that interactional competence in the L2 emerges naturally once sufficient lexical/grammatical knowledge is in place was disputed by Widdowson (1978). This presentation suggests that the ability of learners to interact in the L2 requires both explicit teaching of interactional skills and also extensive opportunities for learners to engage in non-directed, phatic interactions. The presenter will outline the theoretical underpinnings of using free conversation in class time in relation to an interactional syllabus.