Deploying Literature to Enhance Portuguese Oral Proficiency

In the realm of foreign language instruction, there is a discernible resurgence of interest in incorporating literature within language classrooms. Studies have shown the potency of literature to approach diverse linguistic dimensions (Bobkina; Dominguez, 2014; Santos, 2015; Savvidou, 2004), and that literary texts can be used across proficiency levels (Lazar, 2009). This article focuses on the integration of literary texts as didactic tools in the teaching of Portuguese as a Foreign Language in higher education in the context of the United States. Based on backward design classes aligned with ACTFL oral proficiency guidelines, this study explores the challenges and benefits of utilizing literature for language acquisition. In addressing the practical dimensions, the article offers illustrative examples to illuminate the strategic incorporation of literary resources aiming an oral proficiency gain in Portuguese.