Bridging Literature and Language Learning: A Pedagogical Approach Using Jojo Moyes’ “Me Before You”

Abstract

This study explores the integration of literature and language learning through a pedagogical approach using Jojo Moyes’ novel Me Before You. The novel offers a rich resource for developing English language skills while engaging with complex themes and character development. Educators can enhance students’ linguistic competence and critical thinking abilities by analyzing and incorporating the novel’s content into a structured language learning curriculum. This study employs a qualitative methodology, using close textual analysis to examine the educational benefits of this approach and its impact on student engagement and learning outcomes. The analysis reveals that using Me Before You in the classroom provides contextualized vocabulary learning, improves reading comprehension, and stimulates critical thinking. The novel’s relatable characters and contemporary setting foster high levels of student engagement, making the learning experience both meaningful and memorable. The thematic depth of the novel, including its exploration of disability, personal growth, and ethical dilemmas, provides ample material for classroom discussions and debates, further enhancing students’ language skills and ethical reasoning. This study underscores the importance of integrating literature into language education to create a holistic and engaging learning environment beyond linguistic proficiency to include cultural awareness and empathy. The findings suggest that such an approach can significantly enrich the language learning experience and better prepare students for the complexities of real-world communication.