ME versus AI!

So I wondered how AI would match up when pitched against ME (ELT production specialist) to write a short blog entitled: “Why is getting the right cast for an English Language Teaching drama series so important?”

See if you can spot which one is which - here we go (in no particular order…)

Why is getting the right cast for an English Language Teaching drama series so important? (Ver 1)

There are several reasons why getting the right cast for an English Language Teaching (ELT) drama series is so important.

• The actors should be fluent in English. This is obvious, but it's worth repeating. If the actors are not fluent in English, it will be difficult for learners to understand what they are saying.

• The actors should be able to speak clearly and slowly. Learners are still learning English, so they need actors who speak clearly and slowly enough for them to follow along.

• The actors should be able to pronounce words correctly. This is important for both comprehension and pronunciation practice.

• The actors should be able to act naturally. Learners are more likely to be engaged and interested in a drama series if the actors seem natural and believable.

• The actors should be from a variety of backgrounds. This will help learners to see how English is spoken by people from different cultures.

By casting the right actors, ELT drama series can provide learners with a valuable opportunity to improve their English skills.

In addition to the above, here are some other benefits of getting the right cast for an ELT drama series:

• The cast can help to create a realistic and immersive learning experience. When learners see actors who look and sound like them, they are more likely to feel connected to the characters and the story. This can help them to better understand the language and culture being presented.

• The cast can help to make the learning process more fun and engaging. When learners are entertained, they are more likely to be motivated to keep learning. A well-cast ELT drama series can provide learners with hours of enjoyment, while also helping them to improve their English skills.

Overall, getting the right cast for an ELT drama series is essential for creating a high-quality learning experience. By casting actors who are fluent, clear, natural, and diverse, ELT drama series can provide learners with a valuable opportunity to improve their English skills.

Why is getting the right cast for an English Language Teaching drama series so important? (Ver 2)

With any casting process there are a whole host of important guidelines to follow, however if we’re being specific to an English Language Teaching drama then we need to look closely at certain specific elements of the casting and acting process.

For English language learners there are levels from beginner to advanced, each with their own rules to follow for an actor - primarily the speed of delivery and the enunciation of the spoken lines.

One thing we find it’s useful to impart to an ELT actor is that It’s good to always keep in mind that the student watching could have a very limited understanding of English, and that they’re learning from you. You’re like a surreptitious teacher.

Most ELT scripted content has the language very precisely graded, which means it is simplified for students to make it easier for them to understand. Which brings us to the most important rule for any ELT drama actor:

Scripts need to be learnt and recited exactly as they are written!

Once the actors have learnt the script then the real challenge begins, which is to speak slowly and clearly with an accurate and full enunciation whilst also ensuring the delivery sounds natural and authentic. We get that this is a bit of a contradiction and not easy to get right, however it’s vital for this type of acting. 

The most common mistake is just to slow everything down. This can end up sounding robotic and forced, and at the worst patronising. This is the main skill that an ELT actor needs to master.

It’s also important to consider diversity and inclusivity across the cast. Any ELT drama should make everyone feel equally welcome. 

These elements are all considered carefully when auditioning actors, and essential to get right when putting a great cast together for an ELT drama.

So what do you think? Which one is which? Let me know in the comments or on social media!