The Grammar translation method, or classical method emerged when people of the western world wanted to learn "foreign" languages such as Latin and Greek.  Its focus was on grammatical rules, the memorization of vocabulary and of various declensions and conjugations, translations of texts, doing written exercises.

A class working with the Grammar translation Method would look like that:

1. Classes are taught in the mother tongue, with little active use of the target language.
2. Much vocabulary is taught in the form of lists of isolated words.
3. Long elaborate explanations of the intricacies of grammar are given
4. Grammar provides the rule for putting words together, and instruction often focuses on the form and inflection
    of words.
5. Reading of difficult classical texts is begun early.
6. Little attention is paid to the content of texts, which are treated as exercises in grammatical analysis.
 
 

The basic premise of the Direct Method was that second language learning should be more like first language learning.  The method would include lots of oral interaction, spontaneous use of language, no translation between first and second languages, and little or no analysis of grammar rules.

Here are the principles of the direct method:

1. Classroom instruction was conducted exclusively in the target language.
2. Only everyday vocabulary and sentences were taught.
3. Oral communication skills were built up in a carefully traded progression organized around
    questions-and-answer exchanges between teachers and students in small intensive classes.
4. Grammar was taught inductively
5. New teaching points were taught through modeling and practice
6. Concrete vocabulary was taught through demonstration, objects, pictures;
    Abstract vocabulary was taught through association of ideas.
7. Both speech and listening comprehension were taught
8. Correct pronunciation and grammar were emphasized.
 
 

Information taken in: Brown, Douglas H. Teaching by Principles. Upper Saddle River: Prentice Hall Regents. p. 52-53.