The crucial role of the eclectic approach and conceptual fluency in advancing chinese students' language competence

Abstract

This paper delves into the importance of an eclectic approach and conceptual fluency in enhancing students’ language learning in the Chinese context. The Chinese students observed by the author often reach a stagnation point in their advancement, wherein they produce grammatically correct language that lacks creative use of language, such as the effective use of metaphors. This paper argues that an eclectic approach focusing on conceptual fluency, which is frequently neglected in language classrooms, can improve students’ language beyond the grammatical “well-formedness” of sentences. Multiple studies have also confirmed the benefits of integrating conceptual fluency into language teaching. The paper culminates in cross-linguistic and categorization tasks designed to enhance metaphor awareness. Language teachers are encouraged to focus not only on grammar and communication but also on developing students' metaphorical competence and conceptual fluency.