Abstract

BUITRAGO TINJACA, Rocío Amparo  and  AYALA CONTRERAS, Ruth. Overcoming Fear of Speaking in English through Meaningful Activities: A Study with Teenagers*. profile [online]. 2008, n.9, pp.23-46. ISSN 1657-0790.

This article reports on a study implemented in a public school to explore some learning strategies to overcome speaking fears and anxiety. After a preliminary inquiry to find out the possible causes of the problem, we proposed an artistic and academic space called Cultural Moment, adapted from the Spanish class. It is a task-based cooperative learning environment. The students have the possibility to try their aesthetic abilities and interact in English within an unstressful and enjoyable atmosphere. To gather information we used interviews, field notes, and audio and video recordings. This study suggests some possible strategies to reduce language anxiety and promote oral interaction in the classroom.

Keywords : Learning strategies; cultural activities; overcoming fears; cooperative learning; oral interaction.

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