This dissertation aims at investigating the use of the press in the Spanish language classroom as a means of bringing the students closer to the Spanish culture, while enhancing their interest for reading.

The press is a significant means of communication, which can be utilised within the classroom environment to help the students in keeping up with the dynamics of current affairs. In a Maltese Spanish language classroom the press immerses the students in the everyday life of Spain. Thus, it provides the students with a context that mediates language and culture. In order to reach this dissertation’s objectives, an action research was conducted with a sample of students. During which a set of 10 lessons were delivered to the research participants.

The data gathered through the accomplishment of the questionnaires and the final test, shows that the press is indeed a very useful tool in the transmission of cultural information, since it offers teachers the opportunity to work with an authentic material, which reflects societal cultural aspects. Moreover it promotes reading, interest and motivation in the students.

B.Ed.(Hons)

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