A basic classroom technique used to conduct an intensive oral drill of the basic sentence pattern is called what?

• A. Drilling
• B. Pattern practice
• C. Silent reading
• D. Free conversation

Answer: (B)

Pattern practice focuses on drilling a specific sentence structure through repeated, guided oral practice. By using a fixed sentence frame, learners concentrate on getting the form and word order right, while content words are substituted to keep the pattern active. For example, with a basic pattern like “This is a _____,” students chant and respond in unison, then provide individual responses such as “This is a pencil,” “This is a book.” The teacher provides quick feedback and corrections as needed, helping the pattern become automatic for speaking. This approach is ideal when the goal is to ingrain a particular sentence pattern through intensive repetition, distinguishing it from unstructured activities like silent reading or free conversation, and from broader terms like drilling that don’t specify a targeted pattern.