English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers employ various techniques to make language learning engaging and effective. One common approach involves using storytelling to illustrate grammatical concepts such as the past continuous and past simple tenses. While this method may serve its purpose in teaching language structures, it raises questions about the effectiveness of the storytelling itself. In this article, we will explore the conventional use of storytelling in ESL classrooms, provide an example, and introduce an alternative method—the ABT (And, But, Therefore) approach—to demonstrate how it can elevate both language instruction and storytelling.
The Traditional Approach:
ESL teachers often resort to storytelling to help students grasp the nuances between the past continuous and past simple tenses. A typical narrative might go like this:
Example: “I was walking down the street (past continuous) when suddenly, I saw my friend. We talked for a while, and then he told me about his new job (past simple). This happened, and that happened.”
While this method effectively introduces grammar concepts, it tends to rely on a chronological sequence of events. The story progresses linearly with a series of “this happened and that happened,” emphasizing the grammatical structures rather than the art of storytelling itself.
The Pitfalls of Conventional Storytelling:
While the past continuous and past simple storytelling method serves its instructional purpose, it often falls short of capturing students’ attention and fostering a genuine appreciation for narrative. The linear structure lacks the elements that make a story compelling and memorable, potentially leaving students disengaged.
Introducing the ABT Method:
An alternative to conventional storytelling is the And, But, Therefore (ABT) method, a narrative structure that adds depth and coherence to stories. This method, popularized by Randy Olson in the context of science communication, is equally applicable to ESL instruction.
Example using the ABT method: “I was walking down the street (past continuous), and I saw my friend. But, instead of our usual chat, he seemed troubled. Therefore, I asked him what was wrong. He told me about his new job (past simple). This revelation surprised me, and I realized that life had taken an unexpected turn for him.”
The ABT method introduces contrast (But) and consequence (Therefore), adding layers to the story. It engages students by creating suspense, surprise, and curiosity—essential elements of effective storytelling.
Advantages of the ABT Method:
- Engagement: The ABT method keeps students engaged by introducing twists and turns in the narrative, making the learning experience more enjoyable.
- Memorability: Stories structured with the ABT method are more memorable, as they evoke emotional responses and connect with the learners on a deeper level.
- Contextual Learning: The method encourages contextual learning, helping students understand the practical applications of language structures within a narrative framework.
- Critical Thinking: By incorporating contrasting elements and consequences, the ABT method stimulates critical thinking skills, prompting students to analyze and interpret information.
Conclusion:
While the traditional past continuous and past simple storytelling method may serve its purpose in ESL classrooms, there is room for improvement. The ABT method offers a more dynamic and engaging approach, transforming language instruction into a captivating storytelling experience. By incorporating the art of storytelling into language teaching, educators can create a more enriching and effective learning environment for ESL students.