Literature and Current Events: A Theme-Based Approach to Teaching Reading, Writing, and Critical-Thinking Skills to Nonnative Speakers of English
Abstract
To improve reading fluency and comprehension and to acquire vocabulary, ESL students must be exposed to a wide variety of readings, particularly continuous text. Recently, there has been renewed interest in literature as a valuable tool in teaching English as a Second Language. Therefore, as a supplemental reading assignment, two instructors of advanced-level students in an Intensive English Program (IEP) collaborated on a theme-based approach to teaching reading, writing, and critical thinking using The Tortilla Curtain by T. C. Boyle and a news survey of relevant articles. The choice of this particular novel proved timely because of its connection to current events and the abundance of media reports and political debates regarding illegal immigration and the rights of undocumented immigrants. Students explored issues related to immigration, racism, and social justice. This thematic approach helped the students develop reading fluency and comprehension and improve their vocabulary and critical-thinking skills.