The Teaching of Urdu Language Through Literature: Theoretical Study

Abstract

This paper examines how Urdu literature can be used to teach language, highlighting both theoretical ideas and practical approaches. It argues that language and literature are closely connected: literature not only teaches words and grammar but also reflects culture, emotions, and social values. While everyday conversation can be learned through ordinary practice, literature provides deeper understanding, showing learners how language is used in real-life situations and cultural contexts.

The study reviews traditional teaching methods, such as reading texts with explanations, memorization, and imitation, and shows how these can work alongside modern approaches like the Communicative Method, Task-Based Learning, drama, creative writing, and multimodal learning. The paper emphasizes that selecting suitable literary texts according to learners’ age, knowledge, and cultural background is essential, especially for adults and foreign learners. The paper concludes that teaching Urdu through literature is more than just a classroom activity. It is a process that develops language skills, creativity, critical thinking, emotional understanding, and cultural awareness. By combining thoughtful teaching, well-chosen texts, and modern resources, literature can make language learning meaningful, engaging, and connected to real-life experiences.

References:

1. Nazeer Siddiqui, Urdu Adab ke Tadreesi Dareechay, murattib: Razi Haider, Dehli: Maktaba Jamia Nai Dehli Limited, 2009, p. 28.
2. Khalil Ahmad Baig, Mirza, Lisani Masail aur Mabahis, Dehli: Educational Publishing House, 2016, p. 256.
3. Moeen-ud-Din, Hum Urdu Kaise Parhain, Lahore: Book City, September 2021, p. 119.
4. Saleem Farani, Urdu Zaban aur Is ki Taleem, Lahore: Pakistan Book Store, 2nd ed., 1962, p. 6.
5. Syed Muhammad Shah Wali Yamini, Tareeqa-e-Taleem-e-Urdu, Lahore: Sheikh Muhammad Ashraf Tajir-e-Kutub, 6th ed., 1953, p. 86.
6. Ibid, p. 45.
7. Nazeer Siddiqui, Urdu Adab ke Tadreesi Dareechay, p. 34.
8. Naseer Ahmad Khan, Urdu Lisaniyat, Nai Dehli: Urdu Mahal Publication, 1990, p. 198.
9. Ibid, p. 199.