Language teachers have been using films in their classes for decades, and there are a number of reasons why film is an excellent teaching and learning tool
Learning from films is motivating and enjoyable
Motivation is one of the most important factors in determining
successful second-language acquisition. Films and TV shows are an
integral part of students’ lives so it makes perfect sense to bring them
into the language classroom. Film, as a motivator, also makes the
language learning process more entertaining and enjoyable.
Film provides authentic and varied language
Another benefit of using film is that it provides a source of
authentic and varied language. Film provides students with examples of
English used in ‘real’ situations outside the classroom, particularly
interactive language – the language of real-life conversation. Film
exposes students to natural expressions and the natural flow of speech.
If they are not living in an English-speaking environment, perhaps only
film and television can provide learners with this real-life language
input.
Film gives a visual context
The ‘visuality’ of film makes it an invaluable language teaching
tool, enabling learners to understand more by interpreting the language
in a full visual context. Film assists the learners’ comprehension by
enabling them to listen to language exchanges and see such visual
supports as facial expressions and gestures simultaneously. These visual
clues support the verbal message and provide a focus of attention.
Variety and flexibility
Film can bring variety and flexibility to the language classroom by
extending the range of teaching techniques and resources, helping
students to develop all four communicative skills. For example, a whole
film or sequence can be used to practise listening and reading, and as a
model for speaking and writing. Film can also act as a springboard for
follow-up tasks such as discussions, debates on social issues, role
plays, reconstructing a dialogue or summarising. It is also possible to
bring further variety to the language learning classroom by screening
different types of film: feature-length films, short sequences of films,
short films, and adverts.
Given the benefits of using film in the language learning classroom,
it is not surprising that many teachers are keen to use film with their
students, and an increasing number of them are successfully integrating
film into the language-learning syllabus. Until quite recently it was
difficult to find pedagogically sound film material to help students
improve their language through watching film, and teachers had to spend
many hours creating their own materials. However, with the advent of the
internet there is now a wealth of online resources for both language
teachers and their students. With so many resources, it’s sometimes
difficult for teachers to see the wood for the trees.
Lesson plans
There are many websites and blogs which provide detailed and
well-structured lesson plans based on film and television clips, short
films and viral videos, which save the busy teacher a lot of time. Here
are my personal favourites.
