Discusses the use of humor in the language classroom, and provides some sample activities in Italian. (AM)

This issue of the Yazigi Institute's bimonthly newsletter is devoted to a discussion of the importance of humor in the teaching and learning of a foreign language. It begins with several quotations from well-known linguists, humorists and teachers about the need for humor in the language class. Several examples of humor in the textbooks of the…

Discusses the use of puns, riddles and jokes in building vocabulary, beginning reading, and fostering discussion. Examples are presented and further source materials are suggested. (EJS)

This (London) group teaches English by presenting short humorous skits, in which a language problem is unobtrusively presented. Afterwards the audience repeats the pattern(s), which a member of the group pronounces for them. At the end of each unit, a rousing song is sung, with all joining in the refrain. (IFS/WGA)

Cartoons can be a stimulating and motivational force in the language classroom and, used effectively, can become an indispensible tool in the acquisition of language and culture. (Author/DB)

Describes the use of advertisements in language instruction, with particular attention to the language of advertisements, including the conative and emotive functions, linguistic shock, translation, humor, and cultural information. (AM)

Suggests the use of jokes in the English as a second language class to promote oral fluency, awareness of sociolinguistic rules, and understanding of certain values in American culture. (CFM)