1st Edition
Teaching Literature in the A Level Modern Languages Classroom A Teacher’s Guide to Success
This book provides essential support and advice on using literature in the A level modern languages classroom, addressing key concerns such as ways to approach this task and how to maximise the benefit to students. There are strategies for understanding works of different genres as well as ways to analyse plot, characterisation, themes and style, all presented in a logical way that allows existing teaching methods to be built upon.
Including a step-by-step approach to all aspects of planning, resourcing and teaching literature in modern languages at advanced levels, this book covers essential topics such as:
- Why teaching and studying literature is important
- How to choose the text
- Preparing and introducing the literary text
- Understanding the characters, themes, style and structure
- Writing examination essays
- Ways to spark creative language use before and beyond the set text
Based on the latest A level modern languages syllabus, this practical book will help both new and experienced teachers approach teaching literature with more confidence, which will enrich their students' language learning and inspire their creativity beyond examination requirements.
Acknowledgements
1. Introduction
2. Why teach (or study) literature?
3. Choosing the text
4. Preparing to teach the literature text
5. Introducing the text
6. Teaching the novel and short story
7. Teaching the play
8. Understanding the characters
9. Understanding themes, style and structure
10. Writing the examination essay
11. Sparking creative language use: before and beyond the set text
Appendix 1: Sources of information for teachers
Appendix 2a: Literary phrases in French
Appendix 2b: Literary phrases in German
Appendix 2c: Literary phrases in Spanish
Appendix 3: Individual student reading logs
Appendix 4: Bridging the gap: activities for Mateo Falcone by Prosper Mérimée
List of set texts mentioned in the book
Index
Biography
Katherine Raithby formerly taught French and German to A level in Cambridgeshire. She then led the Modern Languages PGCE programme at the University of Bath, UK, and its affiliated training providers for many years. Her PhD research focused on giftedness in Modern Languages education.
Alison Taylor is a freelance language specialist, with a range of teaching experience at secondary level. She subsequently worked in Secondary Teacher Education at the University of the West of England, UK.
