Case-based Teaching in the English Teaching Classroom

Case-based teaching can be a valuable approach in the teaching of English , at schools, to help students understand both non-fiction and fiction texts.
By using real-life or fictional scenarios as the basis for instruction, case-based teaching provides a practical and engaging way for students to apply language skills and critically analyse the text.

{{09 June 2023}}

Case-based Teaching :
Fiction & Non-fiction Texts

In the context of NON-FICTION TEXTS, case-based teaching-
  • Allows students to explore real-world situations, such as newspaper articles, reports, or academic papers.
  • Through analysing these cases, students can develop their comprehension skills, extract relevant information, and identify key arguments or perspectives presented in the text.
  • They can also practice critical thinking by evaluating the evidence and making connections between the case and their own experiences or knowledge.
In the case of FICTION TEXTS, case-based teaching-
  • Provides an opportunity for students to delve into the story's characters, settings, and conflicts.
  • By examining the case, students can develop their interpretation and analytical skills, identify themes and literary devices, and make connections between the text and the broader context.
  • This approach encourages students to engage with the text on a deeper level and fosters their creativity and imagination. 

    Case-based teaching also-
  1. promotes collaborative learning and communication skills as students discuss and debate their interpretations, share their insights, and work together to solve problems or answer questions posed by the case.
  2. encourages active participation and can enhance language production and fluency. 

    Example ( NON-FICTION) Glimpses of India II - Coorg

    Topic: Exploring Coorg - The Land of Martial Men and Evergreen Rainforests
    Case Scenario: You are a travel journalist assigned to write an article about Coorg, highlighting its unique culture, natural beauty, and adventure activities. Your task is to provide a detailed description of the region, its people, and the various attractions it offers.
    Case-based Teaching Approach:

1. Pre-reading activities:
  • Introduce the topic of Coorg and its geographical location.
  • Discuss prior knowledge and students' perceptions about rainforests, cultural diversity, and adventure tourism.
2. Reading the text:
  • Ask students to read the non-fiction passage about Coorg silently in pairs or individually.
  • Encourage students to underline or highlight key details about the region, its people, and notable features.
  • Discuss any unfamiliar vocabulary or concepts.
3. Analysing the case:
  • Divide students into small groups and assign each group a specific aspect to focus on, such as the martial traditions, cultural influences, hospitality, or adventure activities.
  • In their groups, students analyse the information from the text, make connections, and gather additional information through research if necessary.
  • Each group presents their findings, discussing the significance of their chosen aspect in understanding the overall appeal of Coorg.
4. Discussion and reflection:
  • Facilitate a class discussion on the importance of preserving cultural traditions, the impact of tourism on local communities, and the significance of nature conservation.
  • Encourage students to reflect on their personal impressions of Coorg and share their opinions on the region's attractions and potential challenges.
  • Prompt students to relate their own experiences or discuss similar tourist destinations they have visited.
    Merits:
    An active learning process-
    1. they develop critical thinking skills
    2. they analyse and interpret real-world information
    3. they practice research and presentation skills
    4. they gain a deeper understanding of the non-fiction text and its subject matter

Example (FICTION) The Tiger King

Case Title:
The Dilemma of the Tiger King
Case Description: The Tiger King, a short story by Kalki Krishnamurthy, tells the tale of a Maharaja who becomes obsessed with killing tigers to defy an astrologer's prophecy. The story explores themes of power, fate, and the consequences of one's actions. As students, your task is to analyse the motivations and decisions of the Tiger King, and reflect on the ethical and moral implications of his actions.

Follow the path of these Case Questions:

  1. What are the reasons behind the Tiger King's obsession with killing tigers?
  2. How does the prophecy impact the Tiger King's behaviour and decision-making?
  3. Discuss the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the Tiger King. Are his actions justified? Why or why not?
  4. Analyse the consequences of the Tiger King's actions on himself, the kingdom, and the tiger population.
  5. Reflect on the larger themes and messages conveyed in the story. What lessons can we learn from the Tiger King's story?

Case Activities:

  1. Group Discussion: Divide students into small groups to discuss the case questions and share their perspectives on the Tiger King's actions and the ethical dilemmas presented in the story.
  2. Character Analysis: Ask students to analyse the motivations, traits, and development of the Tiger King as a fictional character. Encourage them to provide textual evidence to support their analysis.
  3. Debate: Organise a class debate where students can argue for or against the Tiger King's actions. Encourage them to build persuasive arguments based on the moral, ethical, and practical aspects of the story.
  4. Creative Writing: Have students write an alternative ending or a sequel to the story, exploring different choices the Tiger King could have made and the potential consequences of those choices.
  5. Reflection and Personal Connection: Ask students to reflect on the themes and messages of the story and make connections to their own lives or other real-world situations.

Merits:
1. Students can engage with the story, analyze the characters and themes, and develop critical thinking and communication skills.
2. Students get a platform for meaningful discussions, reflection, and the application of language skills in a fictional context.

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{{RUCHI SENGAR}}
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