BEYOND THE BASICS: BLENDING LEXICAL AND TRADITIONAL METHODS TO PROPEL B1/B2 ENGLISH LEARNERS' WRITING AND READING FLUENCY

Abstract

This article examines the pedagogical advantages of integrating the Lexical Approach (LA) and the Grammar Translation Method (GTM) to address the specific developmental needs of upper-intermediate (B1/B2) English as a Second Language (ESL) learners. While GTM is utilized primarily to reinforce reading comprehension, vocabulary acquisition, and formal grammar structures, LA is employed to foster communicative competence, fluency, and the natural production of language through the mastery of multi-word units (chunks). By outlining activities such as group story writing, structured text analysis, and vocabulary drawing games, this paper demonstrates how a balanced methodological approach can significantly improve fluency, critical thinking, and overall linguistic accuracy in preparation for advanced B2-level proficiency.