Introduction According to Sidhu, Fook and Kaur (2010), literature-enriched curricula facilitate learning of target languages through avenues of life experiences and composition in an ESL (English as a Second Language) classroom. Furthermore, he asserts that these curricula have the capacity to improve reading and writing skills where development of grammar and vocabulary can be internalised by learners. Poetry is often viewed as a predominant genre of literature, where learners can explore the potential of poetry instruction as a technique in an ESL classroom. This is a valid assertion, which has recently gained significant attention in relation to ESL classrooms (Hess, 2003). Therefore, this essay will detail poetry as an ESL learning technique and justify its validity as an effective ESL teaching tool. In addition, this essay will outline methods and techniques that teachers can apply to help their students understand and appreciate poetry. Furthermore, the essay will detail ho...
Our Dzongkha Lopen walked into the classroom and we stood up to wish him. We were doing revision and each student had to memorize stanzas of the poem-like text, write it on the board, read it and explain it to the class. He nodded and we took it for permission to sit down. Though the day was bright and pleasant, it contrasted with his mood. We could tell he wore his wrathful face that day. I was nervous and scared, as it was my turn to write and explain the stanzas. He sat on his chair and called my name after running through the name list. I walked up towards the blackboard and received the chalk in my cupped hands from him. He gave me a mocking chuckle that, to me said, “Here comes the stupid no-nothing tsagay (fool)”. I had not memorized my stanzas, though I had some idea about what they meant after consulting with a friend who was good at Dzongkha. I did what I had to do. When I finished my task, the first look on his face was sheer bewilderment....
You are so beautiful that Even the roses envy your loveliness. Like a blissful creature bestowed upon man. To teach him of worship, You have come to me. Your eyes shine so vivid That even the stars shy away and The creator himself with bliss Carved your face. Your kiss is sweeter than the sweetest nectar That I say; ‘O sweet Nalaypem, make me immortal with a kiss’ . Fortune has favoured me With your eyes guiding me. I now m grateful for its bounty Of delivering you to me. If Shakespeare were to write a poem on you, He would have done so that it would make me envious. But he would have found no word Beauteous enough to label you. For you are far sweeter than frail Juliet, Far bolder than Portia and far beautiful than Helen. You are to me what I ever wanted in love. My passion has come alive with you, To make my human flesh Godly and good, Capable of love that is to bloom. ‘O sweet Nalaypem I love thee much....
thank you sir, it really means a lot...
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