Edebiyatın Dil Öğretimine ve Öğrenimine Katkısı

Abstract

The main purpose of this paper is to explain the advantages of using literature as a resource in second and foreign language classrooms. To this end, the benefits of integrating literature in language classrooms is first presented within the scope of the following items: a) authenticity, b) cultural awareness, c) thinking skills, d) personal development, e) four basic language skills (i.e. reading, writing, listening and speaking). In the second section, the paper provides information about the significant contribution that different literature genres (e.g. poetry, drama) can make to language learning. The third section of this article highlights the importance of specific criteria (e.g. students’ language level, age, cultural background) for selecting appropriate literary texts to be used in foreign language classrooms. In the concluding section, this paper suggests that, in order to get the full benefit of these advantages, language teachers should be properly trained on the effective use of literary texts, as well. All in all, this paper emphasizes that literary texts, when chosen carefully, considering the features of the target group, and used effectively by welltrained teachers in educational settings, can add not only to the students’ linguistic development, but also to their personal growth.