Journal of English Language Teaching

Culture and language learning through short stories

Nagamani, B

Geetanjali College of Engineering & Technology, Cheeryala, Keesara, Hyderabad

Keywords: Culture, Cultural Variables, Communication

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Abstract

Socio-linguists and anthropologists have for long recognized that language, its form and use echo cultural values of the society in which the language is spoken. According to Krasner, linguistic competence alone is not enough for learners of a language to be competent in that language. It is here that culture occupies an important place. For effective communication, the language used must be related with culturally appropriate behavior. Culture differs from society to society and these cultural variables should be brought to the notice of the students and explained clearly to make learning English a satisfying and complete process. Language teaching should also focus on teaching culture. Culture plays a vital role in language teaching because some words in the foreign language refer to specific meanings in a particular society, which may not be understood by the members of other cultures unless the cultural context is explained.

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