Language

Language Arts

Language development is central to students’ intellectual, social, and emotional growth, and must be seen as a key element of the curriculum. When students learn to use language in the elementary grades, they do more than master the basic skills. They learn to value the power of language and to use it responsibly. They learn to express feelings and opinions and, as they mature, to support their opinions with sound arguments and research. They become aware of the many purposes for which language is used and the diverse forms it can take to appropriately serve particular purposes and audiences. They learn to use the formal language appropriate for debates and essays, the narrative language of stories, the figurative language of poetry, the technical language of instructions and manuals. They develop an awareness of how language is used in different formal and informal situations. In sum, they come to appreciate language both as an important medium for communicating ideas and information and as a source of enjoyment. Language is the basis for thinking, communicating, and learning. Students need language skills in order to comprehend ideas and information, to interact socially, to inquire into areas of interest and study, and to express themselves clearly and demonstrate their learning. (Ontario language curriculum, 2006, pg. 3)

Language Units

Big Question: How can we better care for others, the world, and ourselves?

Term 1 Big Idea - Historical Justice

What is the purpose of education and historical inquiry?
What is the value of cultural identity?
What Challenges and Successes have Marginalized Groups had Improving their Lives?

Term 2 Big Idea: Global Issues

What are the important global issues of today? To whose benefit are they framed?
What is/should be our Relationship with the Environment?
What are the systemic causes of inequality and violence? What are the various perspectives on this issue?
How can we create positive change?