ENGLISH LITERATURE (Include Classics in Syllabus)

The writer (in black and white) believes that
a beautiful camaraderie makes life a wonderful journey.

            This year, there have been changes in the selection of literature texts for English Language (1119) and I would like to express my opinions regarding the new texts selected for poems, short stories, dramas and novels.

            For the changes made for Forms Four and Form Five (effective next year), I appreciate the initiative to include texts by authors from various cultural backgrounds and nationalities. However, I feel that there should also be the inclusion of distinguished authors from the 18^th, 19^th or early 20^th century, whose literary works have stood the test of time and have inspired authors in the present day.

            In the case of Literature in English (2205) - an elective subject with a small number of candidates - the syllabus includes the play The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare, which is a good effort in introducing students to his works. Considering the fact that literature is only part of 1119 – a compulsory subject for all Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia candidates – it may be less relevant to include Shakespeare’s plays in the literature component, and selecting from his repertoire of 154 sonnets would make more sense.

            In the world of literature, legendary authors including Emily Dickinson, Robert Frost, William Wordsworth, William Butler Yeats and E.E. Cummings, are remembered for their exceptionally great quality of work, with deep meanings, impressive styles of writing and strong messages. In appreciating classic works of literature, learners are able to develop Higher Order Thinking Skills, which is the focus of our education system today, as they immerse themselves in the literary works.

            I believe that the combination of ancient and modern texts will help learners open their mind on issues and values in life. Literature serves as a platform for learners to develop background knowledge, express thoughts and relate to personal experiences. It could even be a form of therapy for students who live a hard life due to poverty, disabilities and family problems. By understanding a poem or a short story, students not only stand a good chance to score well in the literature section, but will also learn about the relationship between cause and effect, as well as the dos and don’ts in life, which would benefit them.

              However, English teachers may face challenges in arousing learners’ interest in literature, especially when dealing with figurative languages in poetry. This is a chance for teachers to expand their creativity and challenge their ability to make students love, instead of loathe, literature. 

               There is a remedy for every difficulty. If unfamiliar words in literary texts make students lose interest, teachers can simplify them. If learning literature in the classroom bores students, take them outdoors. If students find it hard to understand themes and issues in the texts, relate the topics to a local context. And, if students keep giving excuses not to learn literature, give them reasons to do so.

            The classics may give learners a new outlook on life. To connect to a world and time that they have been disconnected from is a form of escapism that leads to motivation, inspiration, satisfaction and realisation. 

Courtesy of New Straits Times

23 February 2015