Teaching culture in foreign language classes

Abstract

Contemporary globalized world requires teaching culture of the nation, language of which is studied in foreign language classes. This issue is especially urgent in modern Ukrainian schools. It is believed that in order to develop students’ sociocultural competence national culture should be studied in foreign language classes. In particular, students must be aware of the differences between their native culture, the culture of the studied language, other cultures, besides acquire basic skills for overcoming sociocultural diversities. In determining the key methods for teaching culture it is advisable to make the distinction between the notions “big culture” and “little culture”. “Big culture” includes literature, classical music, architecture, historical figures, geography, core values, views or beliefs, norms of the society, etc., while “little culture” involves people’s everyday thinking and behaviour, customs, preferences, tastes, gestures, use of space, clothing styles, food, hobbies, etc. The study of culture in foreign language classes is ensured by involvement of students in educational activities with application of modern teaching methods, including the use of modern technologies. The school curriculum for teaching a foreign language should include audio and video material based on literature, music, cinema, visual arts, as well as textbooks with texts and tasks dealing with culture. This approach to teaching a foreign language enriches the students’ cultural outlook and contributes to the understanding of the diversity of modern world. Studying a foreign language using authentic material is crucial for the development of students’ communication skills and enables them to understand the customs and way of life of the country of the studies language.