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Embrace the summer breeze as we delve into the intersection of English culture and humour, based on the international bestseller, Watching the English by Kate Fox. Reflect on our existing knowledge of common aspects of English people’s behaviour and the hidden rules to get to know more about their national character, rejuvenate our spirits, and map out our aspirations. Let’s cultivate our linguistic repertoire, weaving together culture and humour. Join us in savouring the season with some light exploration and a touch of laughter!
Description
Participants can take a glimpse at English people’s lives, in detail which will surprise even the most initiated EFL teachers. With her book, Kate Fox provides a mesmerizing and delicate picture of English people, where things are often more meaningful than they first seem, and people from different nationalities and cultures can also connect to them. In this way the most fundamental human areas are covered, thus, our own beliefs and traditions are also placed under a magnifying glass. By looking into the culture of the English, illustrated with excerpts from videos, films and memes, all full of humour, the course provides a rich and entertaining cultural endeavour.
Aims and objectives
The course aims to delve into the intricacies of English social behaviour and cultural norms. We will begin by analysing the English tendency to employ humour as a coping mechanism in uncomfortable situations. We will then delve into the significance of moderation, hypocrisy, and fair play as integral aspects of English life. Furthermore, the course highlights the significance of courtesy and modesty in navigating social interactions, emphasising the role of irony and understatement in English communication while addressing potential challenges arising from cultural differences.
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to comprehensively analyse the nuances of English social conduct and cultural customs. They will gain an in-depth understanding of the role of humour as a coping strategy in discomforting scenarios and the significance of moderation, hypocrisy, and fair play in English societal dynamics. Additionally, they will acquire the ability to navigate social interactions with courtesy and modesty, while adeptly utilizing irony and understatement. Participants will develop a heightened awareness of cultural differences and their impact on communication, thus fostering a more nuanced understanding of intercultural dynamics.
Target group: Teachers of any subject/any age
Minimum level of language: B1-B2 in English
Duration of training: 35 lessons, 7 days
Trainer: Beatrix Price
Date: 13-19 July 2025
Location: Rovinj, Croatia
Price: EUR 595, incl. course, certificate, Erasmus+ documentation (if needed), welcome lunch or dinner, farewell cultural activity
Applicable funds: As part of the Erasmus+ Key Action 1 (KA1), all costs for mobility /travel expenses, course fees, accommodation, subsistence fee/ are covered by the fund.
Trainer
Beatrix Price
Teacher trainer, EFL teacher
Beatrix works as a teacher and a teacher trainer at the Language Pedagogy Department at the School of English and American Studies, ELTE University, Budapest, where she teaches Methodology and other teaching-related courses.