The Effects of Movie-Based Teaching: Focusing on The Great Gatsby

Eun, Mi Seo

Article

Journal of English Teaching through Movies and Media 2008;9(2):3-22.
Published online December 30, 2008.

The Effects of Movie-Based Teaching: Focusing on The Great Gatsby

Abstract

This paper investigates the effects of using movies to provide authentic learning materials in the classroom. Nine movies based on literary works were selected. Surveys and interviews were conducted to find out student reactions to the class. The researcher shows how movies can be used to enhance student awareness of the cultural and historical background of other countries. The results showed that students became interested in other cultures by thoroughly studying movies from different countries. An example of a lesson plan based on the American movie, The Great Gatsby (1974) is provided. This movie is an important resource to help understand the cultural and historical background of the jazz age in America. It is recommended to make well organized movie-based lesson plans to help students learning English. More specific evaluation devices should be developed to measure student learning outcomes.

Key Words: communicative competence;global knowledge;oral communication