When people think of Paris, images of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre quickly come to mind. Yet, beneath the bustling streets of this iconic city lies one of the world’s most unusual and extensive grave sites—the Catacombs. This labyrinth of underground tunnels holds the remains of millions, serving as both a solemn reminder of Paris’s rich history and a fascinating cultural landmark.
The Paris Catacombs offer a unique glimpse into the past. As you descend into the dimly lit tunnels, you’re surrounded by carefully stacked bones and skulls, remnants of Parisians from centuries ago. The Catacombs provide insight into the history of Paris, especially during times when the city’s cemeteries became overcrowded, leading to the decision to move remains underground. Visiting this site isn’t only an experience of awe; it’s also an opportunity to explore life, death, and remembrance as part of the city’s heritage.
Bringing the Paris Catacombs into the TESOL Classroom
As TESOL teachers, exploring the Catacombs is more than just a historical venture—it can become a fascinating teaching tool. Here are some ways you can introduce the Catacombs and similar historical sites into English lessons to inspire curiosity and encourage students to learn about culture, history, and language.
- Reading Comprehension with Historical Narratives
Use articles and resources about the Catacombs to create reading comprehension exercises. Challenge students to explore vocabulary related to history, architecture, and culture, while practicing their reading and critical thinking skills. - Descriptive Writing and Visual Storytelling
Have students imagine they’re descending into the Catacombs. Ask them to describe what they see, hear, and feel. This activity builds vocabulary and helps students practice descriptive language, an essential skill for fluent English. - Historical Debates and Discussions
Use the story of the Catacombs to spark discussions on cultural and ethical topics, such as the preservation of history versus modernization. This can develop students’ speaking and listening skills, and even serve as a prompt for a debate on cultural preservation. - Virtual Tours and Project-Based Learning
Introduce students to the Catacombs through a virtual tour, which many museums now offer. After the tour, have students work in groups to create presentations about the site or even their own country’s unique historical landmarks.
Teaching Abroad and Experiencing History Firsthand
For TESOL teachers, visiting historical sites like the Catacombs of Paris offers a chance to make history come alive for students. With a TESOL certification, you can teach English abroad and experience cultural landmarks firsthand, turning them into stories, lessons, and projects that enrich the classroom experience.
The Catacombs remind us of the depth of Parisian history, as well as the universal themes of life, memory, and reverence for those who came before us. For educators, these themes offer a powerful way to connect students with language, encouraging them to explore not only the language but also the world around them.
American TESOL offers certification programs that open doors to teaching opportunities abroad, allowing you to bring your own cultural explorations back to the classroom. Whether it’s the Catacombs of Paris or other extraordinary sites worldwide, teaching English provides a chance to experience and share the world’s wonders.
