Socio-cultural Aspects In The “English File” Teaching Book

Abstract

This study analyzes the socio-cultural aspects present in the English File (Elementary and Pre-Intermediate, 4th edition) textbook and its influence on the English learning process from first and second semester students in the Foreign Languages Degree with Emphasis in English, at the Universitaria Agustiniana - Uniagustiniana in Bogotá, Colombia. Using a mixed-methods approach, with semi-structured interviews, and classroom observations. The information was collected from different perspectives. The analysis was organized in four categories: cultural representation, social aspects, cultural inclusivity, and teaching practices. As a result, the investigation of the textbook focuses mostly on British and American cultural references, with limited content related to Latin American and local Colombian culture. Some students reported feeling comfortable with the textbook's cultural content, however, 66.7% of them indicated that the book does not reflect the culture they are part of. About the teachers, It was mentioned that they are aware of the textbook's structural and communicative strengths, even though it is necessary to support it with local and relevant materials to connect cultural gaps and enhance student engagement. In conclusion, the teacher works as a cultural mediator, improving students' learning process by not only using books, but also restructuring it in order to have a better approach related to students' culture.