Cultural Backgroud Knowledge and English Teaching 英语论文.doc

Cultural Background Knowledge and English Teaching Outline: I. Problems aroused by different cultural backgrounds A. Some difficulties in communication caused by different cultural backgrounds B. Brief illustration of relationship between language and culture C. Problems in English teaching and teaching material caused by neglect of cultural background knowledge II. Importance of cultural background knowledge in language teaching A. Necessity of cultural background knowledge in aural comprehension B. Necessity of cultural background knowledge in oral English C. Necessity of cultural background knowledge in reading 1. From the respect of allusions as illustration a) Old allusions from history, religion and literature b) New allusions 2. From the respect of idioms as illustration D. Necessity of cultural background knowledge in writing and translation 1. In translation 2. In writing a) Differences in Chinese and English writing styles b) Necessity of knowing these differences III. How to carry out the teaching of cultural background knowledge A. Selecting proper teaching material B. Encouraging wide reading C. Paying attention to proper wording in the classroom D. Using native English video tapes and films E. Encouraging communication with native speakers of English F. Holding lectures about culture IV. Conclusion: It is necessary for teachers to pass on cultural background knowledge to students.  Once an American was visiting the home of a Chinese. As the visitor saw the host’s wife, he said,“ Your wife is very beautiful.” The host smiled and said:“ Where? Where?”—which caused the American’s surprise, but still he answered: “ Eyes, hair, nose…”—an answer that the host found a bit puzzling. The surprising was caused by different cultures. “Where? Where?” meaning “哪里！里！”in Chinese is a kind of humble saying. But the American understood it as “Which parts of the body are beautiful?” So, the reason for both sides’ misunderstandings was differenc