FOLKTALES
They keep the flame of possibility alive." --- Rafe Martin
Using folktales such The Son of The Turtle - Spirit , SI Tenggang or Malgudi Days to teach literature
in classroom helps students to learn about diversity of society and the
richness of the cultures. Folktales will take students on an imaginative
adventure and at the same time instilling moral values. Teaching students folktales
will also inculcate the like/ love for reading; which I find is lacking with
many students/ pupils these days. They don’t seem to have the reading habit. To
me it is a ‘dying’ habit. It is sad to think what will happen to the future
generation. It is up to us, teachers to make a change.
How to use
folktales to teach (my method)
1.Well, as competent English Language teachers, we
must first read the tale(s) and understand it.
Make sure it is not
a very difficult one (depending on the students’ abilities).
2.We can read out the story aloud in the class with
expression and using voice modulation.
3. Have a short play in class. Reenact the scenes
according to the students’ understanding but make sure they follow the
guidelines and the content of the story and do not allow them to distort the
tale.
4. Have interactive activities in class. Q & A
sessions. Explain to the students about different folktales that can be read
during their free time such as folktales from other countries.
My method may not be effective for some, but I have
given my class (Year 6) to read Sang Kancil and the Crocodiles. They were
excited since they have not read it before.
There are other Malaysian folktales:
1. The Clever Servant
2. Paddy That Turns to Gold
3.Sang Kancil and The Crocodiles( different stories)
I grew up with folktales and would like my students to
share the same passion.
Here is a link for anyone to read more folktales from different countries. enjoy reading.
