Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate how role-play facilitates language and literacy development in Grade 2 English as a Second Language (ESL) learners at a Maldivian school. Participants in this case study included twenty purposively selected students and two teachers. Data were collected by means of classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, and teachers’ lesson plan documents. Data for this study were analyzed by following a thematic analysis framework. The findings revealed a positive impact of role-play on students’ literacy and language development. It also revealed that role-play is a relevant method for students to enhance their vocabulary through exposure to new vocabulary and writing scripts. Role-plays facilitate the incorporation of language structures and grammar points, leading to a holistic improvement in their language development and literacy skills. These findings indicate the importance of using role-play in teaching English language and literacy skills. Implications of this study therefore provide guidance to English language teachers who teach ESL, especially to elementary grade students.