EXPOSURE TO AUTHENTIC MATERIALS IN ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE CLASSES AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Abstract

In Indonesian primary, middle, and high schools, traditional English instruction usually places a strong emphasis on grammar rule-based learning. English produced in classrooms under the test-based education system seems to be unspoken outside of the classroom. Consequently, students find it difficult to acclimate to speaking English with native speakers in the actual world. Connecting with native speakers requires them to continuously modify their language use in areas where appropriate teaching was lacking. By exposing students to real content that is tailored to their interests and level of sensitivity, teachers may help them develop a self-created "English Environment" that help them become more sensitive and proficient in the target language. English teachers should ideally use a variety of authentic materials in addition to English textbooks to stimulate the natural language learning process and enable effective English as a foreign language instruction. Examples of authentic materials include writing, essays, short stories, and song lyrics in realistic language. In light of this, the essay addresses how teachers can utilize authentic materials in EFL lessons to great success as well as how authentic materials can assist students in understanding the true context of English.