EXPLORING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE STORYLINE APPROACH IN ESL CLASSROOM

Анотація

Within the context of English as a Second Language (ESL) learning, there always seems to be a need for new and effective teaching strategies.  It is crucial than ever to look out for cutting-edge methods that encourage engagement and adapt to the changing conditions of language learning.  The storyline approach focuses on narrative-focused learning and has gained popularity due to how it helps language acquisition. The paper examines the effectiveness of the storyline approach in the educational process and considers its effects on language learning outcomes and the involvement of students. The research aims to understand the impact of the storyline approach, as well as its effectiveness compared to widely used ESL methods with the focus on ESL.  Over the years, ESL teaching techniques have been continually evolving, varying from standard methods to task-based and communicative approaches, with a primary focus on meaningful communication and student engagement in the language acquisition process. This change gave the storyline approach the prospect for further development. A review of the literature was conducted to allow us to get a complete understanding of the storytelling approach and its value for language learners. Creswell J. (1997) highlights the way the narrative approach engages students, facilitates cooperation, and integrates a variety of subjects into a relevant, real-world context. Ahlquist S. (2012) recognizes the value of the storyline approach, pointing out how collaboration in groups connects theoretical and practical content. Researchers such as S. Ahlquist, S., & Lugossy, R. (2019) advocate for the storyline approach and the effective use of stories to help develop communicative language skills. Others, such as Mitchell, P., & McNaugton, M.J. (2016), address the use of storyline in foreign language learning process, focusing on its application in various contexts and its role in task-based language learning. Similarly, Kocher (2020) offers a theoretical basis and practical insights into the storyline approach, along with considerable suggestions for its use in ESL classes.