During our
English classes at CEIP Ria de Vigo, we have attempted to offer a varied and
diverse exploration of UK culture. We have primarily done this through the
study of two sources, both a novel and a film.
The first
term was dedicated primarily to the study of Billy Elliot. The film was used as
a means for further exploring and analysing various aspects of UK culture. We
examined aspects of the film, such as its portrayal of the British Class
System, the events of the 1984 Miners´ Strike, as well as the distinct dialect
of North East England. Often pupils are exposed only to a certain type of UK
accent. We believed it important that our pupils be exposed to different
regional accents within the UK. Our study of the film also enabled us to
consider more universal concerns such as gender roles and social stereotypes.
Watching the film, with subtitles and analysis, allowed for the students to
practice their listening skills. We thought it important that the pupils hear
more ´natural´and vernacular English as well as more formal
varieties.
In the second
term, we decided to study Charles Dickens´ classic and canonical novel,
‘Oliver Twist´. We examined the often difficult life of those living in
Victorian London, exploring social issues such as poverty and child labour- a
particularly pertinent topic considering the age of the pupils. Studying the
novel allowed the children to practice and improve their reading and
comprehension skills whilst reading an important work of English literature.
Ana Isabel Ferreirós Rey.
Jacob Garner.
