Effects of critical literacy activities using children’s literature on primary English learners’ productive skills

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of critical literacy activities using children’s literature on primary English learners’ productive skills. The researcher selected 31 fifth grade children and taught English lessons throughout a year. Data from diverse sources were analyzed mainly in a qualitative manner. The results were as follows: First, in terms of spoken language production, as a result of analyzing children’s speaking focused on their interactions, children were able to attempt various types of interactions such as one-person focused interviews, pair talk, or group discussions. As the class went on, children actively participated in meaningful interactions in which they exchanged their thoughts with meaning negotiation. Second, in terms of written language production, it was possible to activate children’s writing through various writing activities that stimulate children’s thinking. In other words, it developed into writing short sentences, writing expanded thoughts, and considering the readers while writing. This development was supported by the improvement of the children’s writing ability. Based on the results, some implications were included.