CREATING, UNDERSTANDING, AND RESPONDING TO COMMUNICATIONS

The English Language Arts 8 to 10 curriculum provides opportunities for students to learn to use and appreciate language through a variety of communication forms in a variety of contexts.

Communication, as it is used here, refers to any written, spoken, or visual representation involving language (e.g., web chart or symbol). People create communications for personal use and to convey their ideas to others. People also read, view, and listen to the communications of others. Although there is considerable overlap, it is useful to consider communications in terms of three categories: literary communications, informational communications, and mass media.

Literary Communications

Includes: narrative and non-narrative styles; classic, contemporary, and popular works; print and non-print materials.

The study of literature gives students greater self-awareness and a deeper appreciation of the richness and complexity of human experience. Literature has the power to help students:

cultivate their personal and aesthetic awareness
gain insight into the human condition
broaden their experiences through creative and critical thinking
transcend the barriers of time and place as they explore imaginary worlds
recognize the timelessness of literary traditions and their relevance to contemporary life
increase their awareness of the importance of literary forms and the power of language
expand vocabulary, gain familiarity with correct language usage, and develop a sense of precision and artistry in style and expression

Informational Communications

Includes: the everyday written and oral language of home, school, community, and work (e.g., letters, forms, directions, summaries, debates, interviews, labels, diaries, notices, telephone conversations) as well as more specialized technical information such as reports, manuals, and procedures.

The exchange of information takes place continually in everyday life. Having the ability to convey and respond to information is essential to students' success in school and the workplace, and prepares them for the responsibilities of citizenship. Using language for a variety of informational purposes and audiences helps students:

communicate effectively and clearly using various technologies
read and interpret technical directions and instructions
gather, exchange, and manage information
solve problems independently and in collaboration with others
expand their knowledge base
cultivate analytical and critical thinking

As students progress through the grades, emphasis in the English Language Arts K to 12 curriculum shifts from the study and creation of informational communications associated with daily life to those associated with school, the workplace, career and postsecondary education, and the wider community.

Mass Media

Includes: print, film, and electronic communications directed to a mass audience.

The English Language Arts 8 to 10 curriculum focusses on using mass media as well as analysing its impact on society. As students use electronic communications and examine the nature of information conveyed to the public in newspapers, magazines, radio, television programs, and other media, they learn to:

examine and evaluate content and audience
analyse cultural, racial, and gender roles and stereotyping
communicate effectively using media
select information and expand their knowledge base
think critically about the messages surrounding them
comprehend the role of mass media in society and their personal lives

Revised: January 25, 1999

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