USING CULTURALLY-RELEVANT AUTHENTIC TEXTS TO FOSTER INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATIVE COMPETENCE

Abstract

Abstract: This article examines the theoretical role of culturally-relevant authentic texts in fostering intercultural communicative competence (ICC) among language learners. Authentic texts, including literature, media articles, songs, and real-life documents, expose learners to cultural values, norms, and communicative practices of target language communities. Drawing on Byram’s model of intercultural competence, Kramsch’s cultural theory, and sociocultural perspectives on learning, this paper argues that integrating culturally-relevant materials into language pedagogy enhances learners’ ability to interpret, negotiate, and mediate meaning across cultures. The discussion highlights the importance of authenticity, cultural relevance, and critical reflection in developing ICC, while emphasizing the pedagogical role of teachers in scaffolding learners’ engagement with texts.