The purpose of this study is to expand advanced students' English proficiency by developing their background knowledge in current affairs. In order to build up such integrative background knowledge about current issues, traditional English reading or listening classes should be modified. This study shows an integrative and interactive model of developing four language skills in English based on using multimedia power-point slides and focusing on current affairs. One of the advantages of using multimedia power-point slides is to provide authentic materials for students. Using articles from the Korea Herald or the Korea Times, the class uses power-point slides which focus on politics, economics, arts, and culture. The model is expected to endow students with background knowledge to help in preparing for careers after college graduation while also advancing their current level of English proficiency a few steps by expert scaffolding in small group activities. This teaching model using multimedia power-point slides is based on three key factors: authenticity of teaching materials, student-oriented English classes, and Vygotsky's theory of expert scaffolding. |