How can we make English more real and relatable?

Matt Bromley was asked to contribute to a series of videos for Pearson Learning exploring ways of making English more real and relatable. You can watch those videos below. Here, he explains why English is the most important subject on the timetable and how we can make it talk to pupils’ lived experiences…

This is the final instalment in a 2-part post. Catch up with part one before reading on.

In the first part of this article, I argued that English is intrinsically relatable because it innately talks to students’ lives and explores the human condition. But how can we make English lessons even more relatable and why does this matter?

Well, first, we can teach English curriculum content within meaningful contexts, and ensure new knowledge builds upon existing knowledge and talks to students’ lived experiences. We can use analogies to compare new abstract information to what’s familiar and concrete. Qe can use real-life scenarios, such as ordering food in a restaurant, shopping, or planning a holiday.

We can incorporate authentic materials like blogs, podcasts, YouTube videos, and songs. These expose students to genuine language usage, cultural nuances, and current topics of interest.

We can encourage students to bring their own experiences and interests into the classroom. We can engineer discussions that allow students to express themselves. For example, they can write about their favourite hobbies, or give presentations on topics they are passionate about. This personal connection enhances their engagement and makes the learning process more meaningful.

We can create interactive activities where students can engage in role plays or simulations. For instance, we could simulate a job interview, a customer service scenario, or a debate on a current issue.

We can show students how English is used beyond the classroom. Highlight its relevance in everyday life, career opportunities, and global communication. Explain how English is used in international business, travel, technology, and entertainment. This helps students understand the importance and practical value of learning English.

And we can make use of schema theory whereby we connect the texts we study in class to other texts we’ve studied previously, to students’ own lives and experiences, and to the wider world – to social, cultural and historical contexts.

And all this matters because it fosters intrinsic motivation. When students can see the immediate relevance and application of what they are learning, they become more engaged and enthusiastic about that learning.

When learners can connect new knowledge with their own experiences, it creates stronger neural connections, leading to better retention.

By using authentic materials and real-life scenarios, students develop practical communication skills. They learn how to navigate conversations, express themselves in different contexts, and understand English speakers from various backgrounds.

And

Integrating culture into lessons fosters cultural competence and empathy. Students gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for different cultures, fostering global citizenship and intercultural communication skills.