Make Literature an independent subject

The malaise that is affecting the teaching and learning of the English Language in Malaysian schools could possibly be addressed if we make Literature a separate subject instead of making it a component of the language. All the 5 or 6 periods allocated would then be devoted to the teaching of the language per se.

English Language teachers are overwhelmed with so much to do and a lot of unnecessary paperwork. They have to handle grammar (spelling and dictation as well as vocabulary are part of grammar teaching), comprehension (reading and writing are included here), writing (this is an overwhelming task at the moment as our kids do not possess the capital to even write a basic sentence), reading and speaking. Many of the teachers were trained in TESL (Teaching of English as a Second Language) and therefore lack the confidence and expertise to teach Literature.

Wouldn’t it be better if we give 3 periods a week to the teaching of English Literature which would include all the 4 genres (the short story, the novel, poetry and the play)? Teachers who were trained in English Literature or who love it and know how to handle it should be put to teach it. It would be even better if it’s possible to do block-teaching so that students of the same ability are put in the same class. The level of difficulty of texts etc would depend on the students’ ability.

It is a fact that when we learn a language we should also be exposed to the culture of that language. The study of literature is the key to learning a language. However, only original works should be used. Rewritten versions don’t measure up. When kids read a variety of poets, novelists, short-story writers and playwrights they are exposed to the cultural experiences of these artists. Subconsciously they pick up the nuances of the language. They learn to express themselves when they read. They learn how to say something and how to describe emotions, thoughts, ideas, things, situations etc. Therefore, they learn to write.

Once kids are able to write they do not have to depend on formula-writing. Desperate teachers of the English Language and tuition centres have been making their students learn by heart such pre-written essays, with the hope of helping them pass examinations. It is indeed sad that we have been reduced to such a state where even writing has to be learnt that way. Though writing is a precise science it is also an art of the creative mind so it should be spontaneous. The study of English Literature and the nurturing of a reading culture will help overcome this dilemma of the inability to write. All the national examinations at the secondary and upper-secondary levels are putting more emphasis on writing. Writing is the true test of a student’s command of a language.

It is a good thing that students today are taught to think in the study of Science and History. In teaching writing, our kids should be taught to think logically. They do not like to think as it demands focus and too much hard work. When we write we show up the processes of our thinking very clearly. Therefore, writing must be spontaneous and never be a process of rote learning. I fervently hope that the new Minister of Education will give some thoughts to literature and writing.

Our students today are lazy and do not want to read up further on a topic and more so if no examinations are involved. Lots of parents reinforce this narrow mentality that nothing is worth learning unless it’s for passing examinations. It is no wonder students at the university are reluctant to read further on a subject. One of the reasons is that they find difficulty in understanding the reference books which are mostly written in English. When we introduce our kids to literature we are in fact killing more than two birds with one stone. They learn the language, they learn to write, they learn to read at a higher level and the study of literature involves oral discussions.

Note : Star Education also chose not to publish this.