126230 VK MEd 01A/B: VK Specific Issues in Language Learning and Teaching / Specific Issues in EFL Teaching (2021S)

Based on the ideas that firstly anyone can tell a story and secondly stories have a life and power of their own, we will explore how we can use narrative texts in all kinds of formats (novels, poems, drama, films, radio shows, YouTube videos, videogames…) in the EFL classroom.

The course will revolve around these two pivotal questions: How can I make use of and creatively exploit already existing stories and this way create rewarding and fun English classes? And how can I make students do their own storytelling, i.e. narrate their own personal/biographical or fictitious tales?

More specifically, you will be given answers to the following questions:

• How can I make my students read full-blown narrative texts (=books) and turn them into passionate and competent readers?
• How can I integrate what I love (prerequisite: you must love stories) in my English teaching and create my own materials?
• How can I implement narrative texts in tests, the Matura and grading?
• How can I use storytelling to not only develop students’ language skills but also contribute to their personal development into open-minded, critical and responsible people interested in the world, culture, history and politics?
• …

Class will be very practice-oriented.

Methods: group interaction, discussions, lecturer input, student presentations, observations, if possible: teaching practice in a school (not obligatory)