Use of role-play in language and literacy development for English as a second language (ESL) learners: an exploratory case study of a Maldivian school
Date
2023-03
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Islamic University of Maldives
Abstract
Providing children with opportunities to develop their language in a positive environment is vital.
Engagement in different types of play allows children to utilise their language skills. Roleplay is
one of the most common methods used by teachers in order to facilitate young English as a Second
Language (ESL) learners’ language development and literacy skills. The purpose of this study is
to investigate how role-play facilitates language and literacy development in ESL learners of grade
two level students. Participants of this case study include purposively selected 20 students and 2
teachers. Data were collected by means of classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, and
teachers’ lesson-plan documents. Data for this study were analysed by following Braun and
Clarke's (2006) thematic analysis framework. The findings revealed that role-play has a positive
impact on students’ literacy and language development. It also revealed that role-play is a relevant
method for students to enhance their vocabulary through exposure to new vocabulary, and through
writing scripts. During role-plays, students incorporated language structures and grammar points,
resulting in a holistic improvement in their language development and literacy skills. The study
indicates the importance of using role-play in teaching English language and literacy skills.
Implications of this study therefore will provide guidance indicating the importance of using roleplay to facilitate to English language teachers who teach ESL especially to elementary grade
students. Giving more details of how this method can boost the students’ vocabulary as well as
other language skills.