ABSTRACT
Teaching and learning English are, at their richest, energising, purposeful and imaginatively vital experiences for all involved, developing youngsters’ competence, confidence and creativity as well as building positive attitudes to learning. Teaching creatively involves teachers making learning interesting and effective and using imaginative approaches in the classroom. A creative approach to teaching English encompasses several core features that enable teachers to make informed decisions, both at the level of planning and in the moment-to-moment interactions in the classroom. The importance of play and deep engagement is recognised in fostering creativity; the spontaneous nature of play and its improvisational and generative orientation are critical. Self-directed learning and the agency and problem-solving capacity of individuals and groups must be planned for, reflected upon and celebrated in order to foster creativity. The ability to give and receive criticism is an essential part of creativity, and so teachers will want to encourage evaluation through supportive and honest feedback, as well as self-reflection and review.
