The Connection between Teaching and Culture

In the article “Developing cultural awareness in foreign language teaching” written by Ismail Çakir, the author examines the topic of effective teaching of a foreign language in interaction with the mother tongue and its culture peculiarities. He states that raising cultural consciousness leads to better comprehension of a language, i.e. intercultural communication. That is why while learning or teaching a foreign language one should bear in mind that these two conceptions are inseparable, because one complements the other.

The author further claims that ignorance of cultural differences may cause difficulties in international communication.  It follows that in order to avoid such situations the learners of a foreign language should pay special attention to understanding this or that culture. For the purpose of facilitating this task and making it even possible teachers need to take the initiative and motivate their students.

It is important both for a teacher and a learner to be aware of cultural divergences. Ismail Çakir notes that the knowledge of certain culture-specific features helps to use linguistic units more effective and appropriate. However, sometimes it may be difficult for students to absorb characteristics of a new culture, so teachers may use special techniques to elude alienation that learners of a second language may feel. The author gives role-plays as an example of enculturation in the EFL classroom.

From these arguments Ismail Çakir concludes that raising cultural awareness is the thing of main importance while learning and teaching a foreign language. It assists with deeper understanding of a language and its peculiarities. Teachers play the significant role in developing cultural consciousness; they provide specific materials and exercises, motivate students, and serve as a role model.