English KBSM Curriculum Specifications   2899w

In the introduction section of English KBSM Curriculum Specifications, it is mentioned that a small literature component has been added to the curriculum to enable learners to engage in wider reading of good works for enjoyment and for self-development. In addition, through the introduction of the literature component in the English language subject, students are expected to develop an understanding of other societies, cultures, values and traditions that will contribute to their emotional and spiritual growth.

It is also stated in the curriculum content that one of the learning outcomes of the English language curriculum is to use language for aesthetic purposes. The curriculum developer at the Curriculum Development Centre (CDC) expects students to be able to enjoy literary texts, to express ideas, thoughts, beliefs and feelings creatively and imaginatively along side with the incorporation of moral

values in this area of language use. CDC also outlined the aim of LiE is to enhance students’ proficiency in the English language through the study of a set of prescribed literary texts, contribute to personal development and character building, and broaden students’ outlook through reading about other cultures and world views.

However, how far does the literature component achieve its purpose? Nowadays, there are more research taking place to investigate the effectiveness of literature component as language tool in developing students’ English proficiency. In Malaysia, numbers of research has been made in order to study the relationship between teachers’ teaching method and students’ acceptance towards literature which results in contrasting findings. For example, Fauziah an