ERIC Number: ED223097
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1982
Reference Count: N/A
The Multi-Ethnicity of American Literature: A Neglected Resource for the EFL Teacher.
Di Pietro, Robert J.
Factors affecting the selection of ethnic American literature for use in English as second language classes are discussed. Literature is relevant to second language learning in that it illustrates sustained communication. In selecting literature it is tempting to select that which presents a favorable image of the host country. However, such literature may reveal parochial attitudes that have a negative impact on minority students. Sources of information about ethnic American literature and examples of works dealing with ethnic themes are cited. Ethnic literature that realistically describes immigrant life can provide immigrant students with a means of objectifying their own painful experiences. Newcomers to a society have a need to identify with the experience of others and to learn about the shared and the familiar. The location, selection, and adaptation of literature sensitive to ethnicity must be followed up by assessment of teachers' attitudes. (RW)
Descriptors: English (Second Language), Ethnic Groups, Immigrants, North American Literature, Second Language Instruction, Teaching Methods
Not available separately; see FL 013 281.
Publication Type: Speeches/Meeting Papers; Guides - Classroom - Teacher
Education Level: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Note: Paper presented at the Annual Conference of Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (15th, Detroit, MI, March 3-8, 1981). In: On TESOL '81.