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• TEACHING LEGAL ENGLISH THROUGH DETECTIVE FICTION AND FILMS

  Anahit Voskanyan

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  Abstract

  The article emphasizes legal English, focusing on law and language teaching through reading detective fiction and watching detective films. This leads to the communicative use of legal English and independent learning. The article analyzes the use of detective fiction and detective films as resource material in English for Law classes to promote students' motivation to learn legal English in their subject domain.

  Using detective fiction and films to teach Legal English can effectively build students' legal knowledge and language skills.  Moreover, through reading and watching, students become familiar with English legal terminology, cultural contexts, and the various speech patterns used by native English-speaking lawyers in specific legal scenarios.

  Detective fiction and films offer linguistic and aesthetic benefits, helping students overcome national, cultural, legal, and psychological barriers. Exploring different sub-genres of detective fiction broadens students’ knowledge, fosters a professional reading culture, and enhances their ability to distinguish between legal and non-legal texts. They also develop skills in identifying non-equivalent vocabulary and using the internet to research relevant information. Group and independent reading and film-watching support self-directed learning and research, enabling students to effectively compare English and Armenian legal realities. Moreover, a bilateral focus on learning and learners creates a more holistic educational experience: learning is student-oriented, providing real communication in class and prioritizing fluency rather than accuracy.  Law school students become motivated and ready to take responsibility for their learning, which leads to better language acquisition and communication.

  Keywords: Education, Legal English, Detective Fiction, Detective Films, Communicative approach, Motivation, Independent learning

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