Integrating Folktales in the Teaching of German – A Practical Approach
Ajibola Akin Fabusuyi

Abstract
This essay suggests how folktales can be integrated into the teaching of foreign languages, especially German, with a view to enhancing quick learning, encouraging class participation and widening of students’ vocabulary. It analyzesPetraHenny’s essay –Integrating Cultural Awareness and Language Skills by Using Folktales especially at the beginners’ and pre-intermediate levels. Using both inductive and deductive teaching methods, according to the level of learners, the essay expounds class activities such as reading, noticing and summarizing which encourage learners’ active participation, develop critical thinking and arouse cultural awareness. The essay concludes that a careful use of folktales by teachers and psychologists helps in motivating individuals and shaping their attitudes to life. It also submits that students do not only understand language faster by learning via folktales under both inductive and deductive methods, but their vocabulary is also widened, common expressions are noticed and imbibed, and at the same time, culture is also acquired.

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