Language and Literature Divide: An Analysis of Textbooks for Teaching Portuguese as an Additional Language

Abstract

This study analyzes the use of literary texts in three textbooks of Portuguese as an additional language (PAL) adopted by universities in the United States. Specifically, it aims to answer the following research questions: 1) How do the activities based on literary texts promote communication in the target language? 2) What opportunities do the activities offer for the development of literary literacy? 3) How is culture approached in the activities? To address these questions, we consider the following criteria of qualitative analysis: first, modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational), extended discourse, and grammar; second, basic steps of development of literary literacy (i.e., motivation, introduction, and interpretation) and diversity of texts; third, cultural products, practices, perspectives, and the notion of interculturality. Results indicate the textbooks incorporate most aspects examined but inconsistently and in relatively low number of activities.