The Role of Literature in English Language Teaching

Literature, far from being a mere pastime, serves as a cornerstone in effective English Language Teaching (ELT). It transcends the realm of grammar and vocabulary drills, offering a dynamic and enriching experience for learners.

Why Integrate Literature into ELT?

Integrating literature into ELT classrooms provides a multitude of benefits:

• Valuable Authentic Material: Literary texts provide authentic language in action. Learners encounter language as it is truly used, exposing them to diverse registers, idioms, and cultural nuances. This authentic exposure fosters a deeper understanding of the target language and enhances communication skills.

• Language Fortification:  Engaging with literature strengthens language proficiency. Learners encounter a rich tapestry of linguistic structures, vocabulary, and stylistic devices. This exposure enhances their grammatical accuracy, vocabulary range, and overall fluency.

• Cultural Enrichment: Literature offers a window into the target culture. Through stories, poems, and plays, learners gain insights into the values, beliefs, and social norms of English-speaking societies. This cultural immersion enriches their understanding of the language and its sociocultural context.

• Personality Development: Literature fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and emotional intelligence. By analyzing characters, themes, and plotlines, learners develop empathy, tolerance, and a deeper understanding of human nature.

• Personal Involvement: Literature can be deeply personal and engaging. Learners connect with characters, themes, and stories on an emotional level, making learning more meaningful and memorable.

Selecting the Right Literary Text

Choosing appropriate literary texts is crucial for successful integration. Consider the following factors:

• Learner Level: Select texts that are appropriate for learners' language proficiency levels.

• Learner Interests: Choose texts that align with learners' interests and preferences to enhance engagement.

• Cultural Sensitivity: Select texts that are culturally appropriate and avoid those that may be offensive or insensitive to learners' backgrounds.

• Authenticity and Quality: Choose well-written and culturally significant texts that provide authentic language exposure.

Do you want to incorporate literature in your classroom? The British Council offers a free of charge workbook for teachers to get you started. Visit the site

In conclusion, the role of literature in English Language Teaching is to enrich the learning experience. By incorporating a variety of literary texts into their classrooms, teachers can create engaging and meaningful learning experiences that foster not only language proficiency but also critical thinking, cultural awareness, and personal growth.

References

• Collie, J., & Slater, S. (1990). Literature and language teaching. Oxford University Press.

• Lazar, G. (1993). Literature and language teaching. Cambridge University Press.