CURRENT MODELS OF TEACHING LITERATURE

TOPIC 3 DED3043 TEACHING OF LITERATURE IN ESL

 Literature is considered as an authentic medium for introducing students to the specific language and culture. The potential of literary reading across the languages to compare traditions and gain insights into various cultural forms and developments should be stressed.

 The models of teaching literature exhibit the theory as to how the teaching of literature is being viewed.

 1. The Cultural Model views literature as a source of facts or information and therefore, reading tends to be based on obtaining information. In this model, the teacher transmits knowledge and information to the students. Teacher centred methodologies and product based teaching.

 2. The Language Model seeks a closer integration between language and literature. Students can improve their language proficiency by using literature as a resource in language learning. Learner centred and is associated with language-based approaches and processbased teaching.

 3. The Personal Growth Model seeks the opportunity for students to relate and respond to the themes and issues by making a connection to their personal lives. Consequently, students' growth in terms of language, emotions and character development are stimulated. Learner centred and closely related to the language than the Cultural model.

Whitehead (1968) says that one of the principles of a successful literature programme is that the teacher must be acquainted with a variety of techniques and activities so as to stimulate and develop students' interest and knowledge of literature.

The traditional way of treating literature: The teacher gives background information on the work or the author There is a reading at home or a reading in class Difficult words are explained either orally or by reference to glossaries, dictionaries, pictures, sounds or mime There is detailed comprehension work and perhaps some translation and memorisation of key passages There is some literary criticism or discussion of received opinions on the work. This usually involves discussion and writing.

Practical principles for teaching literature: Dont worry that you are not a literature teacher, enjoy the literature at any level Start helping ss to enjoy the musical and expressive nature of language Choose pieces to work on because they are short or funny or ss interest

 Use anything you need to for enjoyment and understanding, including pictures, mime, role play, video clips Make the piece come alive by helping learners to forge connections between themselves and the piece of literature Allow time for criticism, praise, distate Allow time for ss to create work of their own

Useful tips
Give your students options Use literature to improve writing. Ask your students to summarize the story and explain to them that what happens in the story makes up the plot. Tell your students to describe the characters in the story. Ask the students to discuss what they think the book is "about." Ask the students how the story may relate to the present day.

 Tell the students to list some of the most used adjectives and describe how these descriptive words may affect the "tone," or mood of the story. Have the class discuss the use of language. Choose the type of literature you wish to teach.

 Connect the literature to the children's own lives. Consider putting on a play based on the literature you are reading. By role-playing the characters in the story, your students can develop a greater affinity for them and further understand how the literature connects to their own lives.

THANK YOU