This week, we had the pleasure of connecting with Antonella Balena, an English teacher from Benevento, Italy, to discover the unique charms of this lesser-known but culturally rich Italian town. With her insights, we explore Benevento’s famous landmarks, cuisine, and language-learning activities that Antonella uses to engage her students. Whether you’re an English teacher, a language enthusiast, or simply a traveler at heart, read on to learn about the fascinating intersection of language, culture, and education in Benevento.
Must-Visit Landmarks in Benevento
Shelly: Which landmark is a must for visitors?
Antonella: Our town has many must-visit spots! We’re close to the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii, both of which are essential for anyone exploring the area.
Benevento, located in the Campania region, is nestled close to some of Italy’s most famous landmarks, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. Benevento itself is a town steeped in ancient history, known as the “City of Witches” because of the folklore surrounding it. Its own sites, like the Arch of Trajan and Church of Santa Sofia, offer a glimpse into the town’s Roman and Lombard past. A short trip from Benevento takes you to the vibrant coastline of Amalfi and the haunting ruins of Pompeii, making it an ideal home base for exploring Southern Italy.
Culinary Delights of Benevento and Campania
Shelly: What is a popular local dish?
Antonella: We have many popular dishes like pasta, pizza, and fish!
Italy is world-renowned for its cuisine, and the Campania region where Benevento is located is no exception. Benevento boasts a rich culinary tradition, from hearty pasta dishes to fresh seafood and, of course, Neapolitan pizza, which originated in nearby Naples. One of the local specialties is Caciocavallo cheese, a semi-hard cheese often melted or grilled, enjoyed with fresh bread or added to pasta dishes.
A fun fact about Italian cuisine is that pizza was originally considered a dish for the poor, with simple ingredients like tomato, basil, and cheese that were both affordable and available. Today, pizza has become a global phenomenon, and nowhere is it better enjoyed than in Campania, its birthplace.
Engaging English Activities for Students
Shelly: Describe an activity your English learners enjoy!
Antonella: My students really enjoy English laboratory activities.
Antonella engages her students with hands-on English laboratory activities that bring language to life. She incorporates Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) methods, which allow her students to study technical subjects in English. This helps them gain real-world vocabulary and language skills directly applicable to their areas of study. Antonella’s students also participate in the Erasmus+ program, which offers them valuable intercultural experiences and the chance to practice English with international peers. These activities, combined with preparation for International English Language certifications, give her students a practical, engaging approach to language learning.
A fun fact about Erasmus+: It was established in 1987 and has since given over 10 million Europeans the chance to study or work abroad, making it one of the EU’s most popular programs for cultural exchange and language immersion.
English Education in Benevento: Antonella’s Approach
Antonella teaches at a technical high school in Benevento, where she goes beyond traditional teaching methods by involving her students in intercultural exchange programs and international English language courses. Her approach focuses on practical application, which she believes is essential for language retention and fluency. Antonella’s use of CLIL is particularly innovative because it blends technical subjects like engineering, business, or science with English learning, providing students with language skills that can directly support their careers.
Antonella’s teaching style aligns with a growing trend in TESOL education: connecting language to students’ interests and future goals. By making English relevant to her students’ lives, she inspires them to engage with the language more deeply. This approach not only improves language skills but also prepares students for a globalized world where English is a critical tool for communication.
Benevento: A Hidden Gem with Cultural Riches
Benevento may not be as famous as Rome or Florence, but it is a hidden gem with a unique blend of historical significance, culinary richness, and educational innovation. As a TESOL educator, Antonella’s methods and her dedication to creating meaningful language experiences for her students make her a true ambassador for both her town and her profession.
Thank you, Antonella Balena, for introducing us to Benevento, Italy! Her work reminds us that language teaching is not just about vocabulary and grammar; it’s about building connections across cultures, inspiring students to explore the world, and giving them the tools they need to communicate and succeed globally. Learn more about teaching English in Italy with American TESOL certification.
