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How to incorporate ICC in the EFL classroom
Comparison method
Reid (2015)
The comparison method is a very common and one of the most used techniques for teaching cultures. This technique is based on discussing the differences between the native and target cultures.
For example discuss the pros or cons of an specific situation, routine, customs etc.As part of the reflexive process of the ICC, it is important to make comparisons of the similarities and differences between both cultures.
Cultural assimilation
With the use of the cultural assimilation technique, the learners are presented with a critical incident, that can generate some misunderstandings while interacting with the target culture. Teachers give learners several possibilities, from which they choose the one which they think is correct. Non-verbal greetings are probably the most common examples of misunderstanding.
Cultural capsule
The idea with this technique is to demonstrates, for example a custom, which is different in two cultures. It can be accompanied by visual aids to show differences and a set of questions for class discussion. The idea is that learners can contrast the new information from the target culture with their own culture For example, the issue of the main meal of the day could be discussed. Learners have to discuss the pros and cons.
Predictions
Making prediction is a technique that brings a lot of motivation into the classes. Students can for example predict the end of a story, guess the contents of an article or a book based on the headlines, predict the contents of a topic based on a few pieces of information. This technique motivates students to participate actively and promotes their curiosity, and interest to talk during the classes.
Role plays
Role plays give learners the possibility to practice real situations of daily activities such as meetings, appointments, situations in a restaurant, at school etc. This technique motivates learners to learn about different situations and use he language as it is used in real life. Students can also do performances of some stories they read.
Critical reading
Critical reading allows learners to make judgments about the information presented in a text, it is a beneficial reflective activity that promotes learners’ intercultural competence while practicing critical thinking and reading skills. Additionally, students can practice writing skills by creating journals or blogs where they reflect about their own and other culture.
