USING NOVELS FOR LEARNING A FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Abstract

Literature provides opportunities for foreign language classes and can appeal to
the students with various learning styles. Literary texts are reliable sources of linguistic
inputs and can help the students practice the four skills-speaking, listening, reading and
writing. In this study, we demonstrated the benefits of using literature in foreign
language teaching. Literature can help the students enhance their perception of other
cultures and societies. Also, literary texts can consider authentic subjects like love and
war that one may experience in the real world. Indeed, literature is representational
instead of referential. While referential language tends to communicate at only one
level and is informational, representational language of literature considers the students
and involves their feelings and perceptions of the real world. Literary texts help the
students to activate their imagination and develop their emotions.