The English Teaching Techniques Applied in the International Class of State Junior High School (SMPN) 8 Malang in reference to Second Language Acquisition Theories

The curriculum used to teach English subject in an international class is different from those in regular class. The difference includes the English teaching techniques. In this research study, the techniques are observed and described. Thus, the objective of this study is to figure out the kinds of English teaching techniques in an international class. Secondly, the techniques are examined further to see which theories of Second Language Acquisition are relevant to them. This study was a descriptive qualitative research. The subject was the English teacher at the international class in SMPN 8 Malang. To get the data, the researcher used four instruments: questionnaires, observations, interview guides, and documentations. Having been collected, the data were analyzed through three steps, ordering, structuring, and giving meaning to the data. The results of data analysis show that there were seven techniques used by the teacher in teaching English. They are role play, scrabble game, drilling and doing exercises, lecturing, dictation, students’ speech, and peer correction. Having been examined to SLA theories, the techniques applied in English teaching at the international class in SMPN 8 Malang are relevant to many of SLA theories. In addition, the international class at SMPN 8 Malang has qualified English teacher, small size class with smart students, and complete facilities for the students. Regardless of the strengths, many improvements are needed to increase the quality of the English teaching techniques in the international class based on SLA theories. Reflecting upon the strengths and weaknesses of the international class as found in this study, some recommendations are given. Firstly, it is suggested that the curriculum for the international class is designed soon. Secondly, it is suggested for the English teacher in the international class to improve her comprehension of Second Language Acquisition theories. It will be valuable if she can internalize the theories as the basis in choosing teaching techniques. In addition, she should use more media and optimize the use of the laptops in her teaching process in the class. Finally, for the students of the international class, they are suggested to adapt their own learning style with the styles used in the international class to have enjoyable and effective ways in learnin