The Transmission of Ideas and Values Through the Use of Literature in School: Indicative Cases With Toddlers

Abstract

The indisputable pedagogical power of literature, since it evokes experiences as a consequence of the creative role of the reader, constitutes a valuable ally of the teacher. In literary texts, persons are carriers of ideas and values. As we identify with them, we capture their ideas and values in the most effective way. Especially for younger readers, who find it difficult to understand abstract concepts, this mode of transmission could be considered ideal, provided that a didactic approach is chosen that will allow students to express their reading impressions from contact with texts. Thus, special characteristics of each student-reader will emerge, as well as new elements of the literary work itself, which is inexhaustible. Regarding the transmission of ideas and values in Nursery School through literature, we cite two cases. The first seeks to raise the awareness of toddlers about the right of every child to grow up carefree and safe in a family environment. The text chosen to achieve the above goal is The Little Match Girl by Andersen. Stimulated by the emblematic, timeless heroine, who tries to warm herself by lighting her matches one by one, toddlers create original narrative texts, looking for a family for her. They present her observing the people around her and dreaming of a family life near them. In the second case, in order for students to realize the importance of the natural world for man, the content and accuracy of an easily understood passage from the work Report to Greco , by Kazantzakis, is used in teaching. Toddlers who are asked to retell the passage in the classroom replace themselves with the student asking for a break in order to enjoy better a bird singing. Thus, they consolidate the essential relationship with nature, which, as the author’s experience, arises from the whole of his work.