Topic 4 : Selection of stories for young learners.

GIRIJA SYUHAIDAH TIANG CHUNG TEE T2TESL 3

Section A: 12 marks
Answer all questions given. 1
In a study of the increasing popularity of using literature in the second language classroom, Radhika O'Sullivan (1991, Selecting Literature section, para. 1) observed that, "It is all very well to point out the advantages of teaching literature but the key to success in using literature in the ESL classroom depends primarily on the works selected." If the selection is too easy, students will feel bored and you will have difficulty designing enough activities. If the selection is too difficult, students will feel frustrated and you will be overwhelmed.

(a). As a teacher, why we need to select what stories to tell or read to the pupils?Explain (2m) ______________________________________ ______________________________________ (b). Give an advantage and disadvantage of selecting stories to the pupils. (i) Advantage:___________________________ ________________________________ (1m) (ii) Disadvantage :________________________ ___________________________________ (1m)

( c ). Explain four criterias in selecting stories for pupils in an ESL classroom. ( 8m ) (i)_____________________________________ (ii)_____________________________________ (iii)____________________________________ (iv)____________________________________

Essay Questions ( 20 marks )

ANSWERS

(a). As a teacher, why we need to select what stories to tell or read to the pupils?Explain (2m) - We need to select the stories because to make sure the story is clear, simple plots,explores feelings and interactions that children of their age can understand. - Suit with their interest and can attaract their attention . - Suitable with their language proficiency. - Appropriate with their language level, may not confused them with hard vocabulary.

(b). Give an advantage and disadvantage of selecting stories to the pupils. Advantage : - The pupils can easily understand the story and interpret the story with their own undesrtanding. - A moral value that gives meaning to the story. - A setting that they can visualize and characters that are understandable.

Disadvantage : - Maybe some of the words or vocabulary are hard to understand. - New words or vocabulary for them to listen. - The plot of the story is hard to visualise and followed by the pupils. - The story is not suitable with their interest.

( c ). Explain four criterias in selecting stories for pupils in an ESL classroom. (i) Appropriate language level. The language in the story needs to be mostly known or understood by the children. It is important that children can listen much more than they can say. (ii) Exploitability. To encourage childrens participation by asking questions that focus on the structure of the story. To help children develop literacy understandings.

(iii) Visuals.This may be the most important issue when selecting a story. There must be something for them to look at and focus on or they will not be able to concentrate. The size,shape,and darkness of the print type may vary from book to book. The lines may be heavy and strong or light. (iv) Language learning potentials. The learners become skilled listeners. Have children to participate in telling a story. Let them to communicate effectively in oral,written and visual formats for example interpret the stories dramatically.