Practical Report Concerning Attempts over Five Years to Utilize Dead Poets Society in Reading and Listening Classrooms

Abstract

The aim of this practical education report is to review my attempts over five years to utilize the American film Dead Poets Society in reading and listening classes at five universities. Before having my students view the film, first I teach the meaning of “carpe diem,” the key word of the film according to Robert Herrick’s interpretation in ”To the Virgins, Make Much of Time.” Then, I instruct them on the content of their presentation and for the topics of the written assignment. The purpose of the presentation is to improve their speaking ability and their presentation skills. I also try to develop their writing and critical thinking skills by providing essays in English to read. The examination of their assignment reveals that they have thought about the significance of poetry and multifaceted thinking. Most students were impressed by the movie judging by the fact that the average grading point of this film by 1,009 participants is 8.2 on a scale of 1 to 10. In addition, this movie is very effective in familiarizing students with English and American poetry, which Japanese students rarely have chances to read.