USING SHORT STORIES TO TEACH FORMAL AND INFORMAL ENGLISH

Abstract

This article explores the effectiveness of using short stories as a pedagogical tool for teaching formal and informal English in EFL contexts. The study argues that short stories provide authentic linguistic input, natural conversational patterns, and context-based language use, which help learners distinguish between formal and informal styles. Practical methods such as guided reading, dialogue transformation, role-play, and reflective writing are presented. Experimental results indicate that the integration of short stories improves learners’ understanding of stylistic differences, enhances communicative competence, and increases motivation.