Which term describes the teaching of the language that learners need before an activity?

• A. Pre-teaching
• B. Pre-listening
• C. Prescriptive grammar
• D. Process writing

Answer: (A)

Pre-teaching is teaching the language learners will need before starting an activity. It involves introducing key vocabulary, phrases, grammar forms, and functional language that could block understanding or participation if left for the task itself. By giving students access to the necessary language ahead of time—through quick glossaries, sample sentences, visuals, or controlled practice—you boost their ability to access the task, follow instructions, and express ideas more confidently.

For example, if students are about to discuss a topic or describe preferences, you might pre-teach useful phrases for giving opinions, explaining reasons, and linking ideas, along with any specific vocabulary from the upcoming activity. This approach helps learners engage more fully during the task because they’re not simultaneously decoding unfamiliar language.

The other options refer to different activities or approaches: one is about preparing for listening specifically, another describes grammar rules in a prescriptive sense, and the last focuses on a writing process rather than ensuring language for a task.