INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION DURING GERMAN LANGUAGE LESSONS BY MEANS OF AUTHENTIC CARICATURES: FOREIGN TEACHING METHODS

Abstract

The article is devoted to consideration of the possibilities of forming foreign language communicative competence by means of authentic German texts – caricatures. Taking into account interests and needs of the modern generation Z, the authors demonstrate the didactic advantages of using authentic caricatures during foreign language lessons, in particular German. It is noted that authentic caricatures reflect the national character of native speakers and contain a large amount of linguistic and regional information, which is extremely valuable while learning a foreign language. Peculiarities of creolized texts are analyzed and advantages of their use during foreign language lessons are considered. It is found out that creolized texts, combining verbal and non-verbal parts, contain a powerful potential for the formation of language, speech and socio-cultural competence and are able to reproduce the peculiarities of the language environment, increase the level of students’ motivation, stimulate effective activity in class, develop critical and creative thinking, etc.

The concept of "caricature" is defined, which is considered as a deliberate parody, satirical or humorous image (mostly graphic) of an event or a person; a type of graphics. It is found out that the main feature of a caricature is a hidden humorous, sometimes ironic or sarcastic character, and its task is to have a visual impact on the reader. An authentic caricature illustrates not only typical communication situations, contains colloquial vocabulary, authentic grammar constructions and other language features, but also reflects socio-cultural, moral and ethical information, in particular the cultural realities of the country and people. The research demonstrates the process of using an authentic caricature during a German language lesson, which involves the following stages: Beschreibung (description), Interpretation (interpretation), Bewertung (evaluation).