LITERATURE IN THE EFL CLASSROOM: CREATIVE ACTIVITIES FOR ONLINE TEACHING TO YOUNG LEARNERS

Abstract

Using literature in young learners’ EFL (English as a Foreign Language) classroom can be a motivating medium for language teaching and learning. Although with some difficulties in the application of literary texts in English language teaching, literature may contribute to the improvement of students’ motivation for learning and could bring to more effective English language instruction. In line with the previously said, the paper will give an outline of how, when and why literature should be incorporated in EFL curriculum with the purpose of emphasizing the use of literature as a popular technique for teaching both basic language skills (i.e. reading, writing, listening and speaking) and language areas (i.e. vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation). This theoretical research aims at answering the following questions: 1) What is the role of literature in teaching and learning English as a foreign language?, 2) What are the approaches a language teacher can use online when teaching literary texts in young learners’ EFL classroom? and 3) What are the benefits of using different genres of literature in teaching English online? As a conclusion, the paper will provide useful ideas and activities for creative English language teaching in online surrounding by using literature as a tool rather than an end in teaching English to young learners.