USING AUTHENTIC MATERIALS, ROLE-PLAY ACTIVITIES AND TECHNOLOGY AS A MEANS OF SOCIOLINGUISTIC COMPETENCE SUPPORT AT SENIOR GRADES

Abstract

This article explores the role of authentic materials in developing foreign language learners’ sociolinguistic, pragmatic and intercultural communicative competences (ICC). Authentic resources are texts, audio, video, and real-world artifacts created for native speakers to serve as powerful tools that bridge the gap between the classroom and the target culture. The paper highlights how authentic materials enhance learners’ understanding of socio-cultural knowledge, existential competence and nonverbal communication. The article emphasizes that while adapted textbook materials have pedagogical advantages, they often lack the cultural depth and linguistic authenticity necessary for meaningful intercultural learning. Examples of classroom activities demonstrate how authentic materials such as menus, advertisements, songs, films and cultural celebrations can effectively promote awareness of social norms, politeness strategies, turn-taking and cultural traditions. The article concludes that systematic and reflective integration of authentic resources fosters learners’ intercultural sensitivity, motivation and communicative competence helping them engage with the target language as a living, culturally embedded system.