A Study on Enhancing English Proficiency Through Films: Focusing on Chef *

The purpose of this paper is to show that English acquisition in an EFL setting can be accelerated by motivating students in a classroom to learn by crafting curriculum based on films that correlate with the interests of the students. Students are familiarized with formulaic expressions regarding specific topics by the use of films as authentic materials where they can apply these expressions in a meaningful context. Film engagement can stimulate intellectual curiosity of students in learning English. In this study, the researcher created classroom lessons using the film, Chef (Favreau, 2014). Through this film, students were able to familiarize themselves with practical daily expressions in English which led to their increased confidence in using it. Seven short scenes were selected to teach useful formulaic expressions that students could use in real life situations. Classroom activities were developed to implement these expressions using the four language skills to increase English proficiency. Feedback from the students was solicited to revise and improve future English lessons in class. The outcome of this film usage in the classroom curriculum showed that students improved their language acquisition by engagement through materials that were both more interesting and motivational in their learning process.