Ivanna, Three Little Pigs, and Cultural Sensitivity in Teaching English

Abstract

This paper deals with cultural sensitivity in teaching English. Several studies and research reveal the fact that most teachers encounter challenges in teaching English for learners from different cultures, so this paper shows how important that a teacher be aware of all learners’ cultures before starting teaching. Some studies and research enhance the fact that cultural sensitivity has been representing a big challenge in teaching English, and it raises concerns how to deal with English language learners (ELLs) in classrooms. Schools, nowadays, are full of learners from different countries, speaking various languages with diverse beliefs and traditions. Accordingly, teachers might find challenges in teaching that huge diversity of cultures. What is culturally accepted by some learners might be rejected by others and vice versa. So, in this paper, the researcher is using qualitative research method, basing on literature review and interviews with ten international students to highlight how important for teachers to be culturally aware to avoid hurting some ELLs’ feelings, focusing on the use of word ‘pig’ in diverse cultures. The analysis of the data obtained reveals that there is a challenging regarding cultural sensitivity in teaching English. Based on the findings, the researcher presents some recommendations ad hoc.