An analysis of humor elements and theories in Turkish textbooks

The purpose of this study is to investigate the characteristics of humorous texts in Turkish textbooks in terms of humor elements and theories. To this end, a case study design, one of the qualitative research methods, was used in the study. The material for the study consists of Turkish textbooks for grades 5, 6, 7, and 8 taught in public schools and private schools for the 2023-2024, 2024-2025, 2025-2026 academic years in state schools, as well as TED Publication's 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Turkish textbooks, which were found to be consistent with the Turkish Language Teaching Program in terms of theme, text, activities, and learning outcomes. In this study, validity and reliability levels were comprehensively addressed in accordance with qualitative research methods, based on trustworthiness criteria. The data collection process was based on expert opinion, and expert opinions were subjected to trustworthiness analysis. Data that was found to be reliable and scientifically consistent was analyzed in detail using content analysis techniques in terms of humor elements and theories. The research reveals that humor in Turkish textbooks is used as a multidimensional tool that supports student's language skills, cognitive development, motivation, critical thinking skills, cultural transmission, and values education, beyond simply being an element of laughter. The findings show that humor-based approaches have been strengthened within the scope of the Turkey Century Education Model, making learning enjoyable, lasting, and student-centered. Based on these results, it is believed that the planned and widespread use of humor as an educational tool in Turkish language teaching programs and textbooks will increase students' language skills, motivation, and participation in the learning process. Recommendations have been made that humor elements should be planned in a gradual structure during the textbook preparation process, taking into account the cognitive and affective characteristics of grade levels, and that the potential for reflection and interpretation should be considered in the structuring of humorous texts. Keywords: Humor Theories, Elements of Humor, Turkish Textbook.