ABSTRACT
In this chapter, I off er an overview of issues relating to the use of popular culture in the language and literacy curriculum. In the fi rst part of the chapter, the concept of popular culture is explored and approaches to its use in educational settings analyzed. In the second part of the chapter, I review research studies that have illustrated how popular culture can inform the language arts curriculum, looking separately at oracy, reading, and writing, whilst acknowledging that these areas are interrelated. In the third part of the chapter, consideration is given to the factors that need to be in place if such work is to be successful. Finally, the chapter looks to the future. Given the rich diversity of research and practice that has informed the development of this fi eld so far, this section identifi es the key issues that need consideration in the future.
