The importance of Cultural Teaching in a Foreign Language study
I. Introduction
To study a foreign language means to study its culture. Language and culture is never separated. If we want to learn a certain language, it means we must learn also its culture. Language is not the only culture that a country has.
II. Elements of culture
In order to learn a culture, we must understand its elements. Elements of culture is divided into two parts, they are visible elements and invisible elements.
A. Visible elements include:
1. History
Of course, we do not have to learn all about its history, but knowing a little about its history will make us understand the country better
2. Social Institutions.
Social Institutions like Red Cross is a very helpful organization in helping the society especially when they are facing natural disaster. From this point, we can learn that, people over there are very caring for their society.
3. Music
Music can talk a lot about one’s culture. From the types of song until its musical instruments, they all reflect the culture.
4. Architecture
We can learn a culture from its building, on how they build a certain building, what material they use and also the design of that building.
5. Literature
From literature, we can actually see how old has that culture existed, how well educated is that society and how they appreciate their culture.
B. Invisible elements:
They mean the culturally influenced beliefs and perceptions. For example, it is consider not polite to ask a women’s age.
III. Why it is important to teach foreign culture.
Many people often cannot accept one’s culture simply because they do not understand that culture. People easily get upset over certain culture, they disrespect or even look down on other culture. That is why it is important to teach foreign culture, so that people will understand and respect each other’s culture. Thus, nobody thinks his or her culture is more superior than the others.
IV. Conclusion
When people can accept and respect each other’s cultures, they will no longer see the difference. Finally, isn’t it good to be able to live under the same sun and the same moon?


Prepared by,

Hendra