A case study exploring the use of poetry in EFL classes at a Lebanese University

Abstract

This study describes how poems can effectively be used in English language classes to reinforce students knowledge of the English language vocabulary and enhance their creative writing. A carefully selected poem, appropriate to the students language level, was included through a three-day lesson plan. Employing the writing process techniques, a three-step guided writing scheme was developed to consolidate students language knowledge and creative writing skills. Feedback obtained from the students through a questionnaire at the end of each teaching cycle, and an observation sheet from the class teachers, demonstrated that the use of poetry contributed to students enthusiasm and potentially to their knowledge of the English language. It offered them opportunities for vocabulary enrichment; it broadened their imagination, and freed them from the routine procedures of a normal classroom. Sample writing of poems produced by learners are included as an appendix in the dissertation to demonstrate how the efficient exploitation of this literary genre was able to maximize learner involvement and creativity.