Parables are short, simple stories that are used to teach lessons in morality. In a parable, the story is a mechanism by which a lesson in morality is given. Because they are so effective, parables have been used for thousands of years to help teachers communicate a message. This ancient method of teaching is an example of narrative-based learning. As humans, we all tend to frame our experiences within the context of stories. Housing our experiences within stories not only helps with our own understanding, it also helps us to transfer knowledge and information to others. In short, we learn about the world through the stories that we hear and tell.
Even teachers of English as a foreign language can borrow this ancient wisdom and use stories in the classroom. Narratives in the classroom make our lessons more memorable. They provide a frame to help students understand. They engage our thinking and our emotions by giving us mental images.
Lastly, when teaching L2 learners of English, stories not only help our students learn vocabulary and grammar, they not only help our students to process meaning more quickly, they also provide opportunities to learn about the world beyond the language.
Which reminds me of a famous story . . .
Naked Truth and Parable
Naked Truth walked down the street one day.
People turned their eyes away.
Parable arrived, draped in decoration.
People greeted Parable with celebration.
Naked Truth sat alone, sad and unattired,
“Why are you so miserable?” Parable inquired.
Naked Truth replied, “I’m not welcome anymore. No one wants to see me. They chase me from their door.”
“It is hard to look at Naked Truth,” Parable explained.“Let me dress you up a bit. Your welcome will be gained.”
Parable dressed Naked Truth in story’s fine attire, with metaphor, poignant prose, and plots to inspire. With laughter and tears and adventure to unveil, together they went forth to spin a tale.
People opened their doors and served them their best. Naked Truth dressed in story was a welcome guest.
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