Title: Poetry in Foreign Language Instruction: A Multipurpose Pedagogical Tool
Presenter:  Sana Abdi (French), Saira Sohail (French) 
Location: Zoom, Password: iwl

Abstract: 
Research has proven that integrating authentic materials in foreign language instruction, such as literary texts, helps develop language skills for learners (Khatib & Rahimi, 2012, Paesani 2005, Martin 1993). In addition, such a practice exposes learners to the cultural background as well as the artistic and literary movements of the target language. In this respect and due to its expressiveness, musicality, rhythm and often diverse forms, poetry can be an entertaining and effective multipurpose pedagogical tool. In this roundtable discussion, we will explore methods through which poetry can be used to teach listening and reading comprehension as well as grammar and composition. We will also demonstrate the use of interactive poetry-oriented activities to enhance communicative competence and speaking skills. With French poetry as an example, we will discuss how instructors can use a poem to target each of these competencies in their foreign language classroom.