239762 Film and Video in the EFL Classroom (alt. to Literature, Media & Intercultural Learning) (S) (SoSe 2014)

This strongly practice-related seminar is mainly aimed at those intending to teach at secondary school level (Sek I): Hauptschule, Realschule, Gymnasium or Gesamtschule.

Based on theories of second language acquisition, motivation and intercultural learning, the course will explore the rich opportunities for foreign language teaching offered by the use of film and video in the classroom. We will look at possibilities to use film as a motivational stimulus for teenage students and as a source of quasi-authentic language input and cultural information beyond coursebook content. The materials – from YouTube video and commercial TV spots to short films, film trailers and full-length feature films – will be addressed by a wide range of teaching techniques suitable for autonomous learning in a creative, communicative and interactive language classroom.

Active participation on a regular basis will be expected. There will be no written exam but participants will be given the opportunity to present their ideas on how to work with specific materials in specific classes, preparing a presentation or micro-teaching session (working individually or with a partner) and/or submit a term paper. Students will be encouraged to choose their own suitable materials and apply the above techniques creatively. There will also be some homework such as formulating questions on the basis of the course readings and preparing learning corners with posters and other materials (working in groups).