The Nature and Importance of Language
Learning is a complex process of discovery, collaboration, and
inquiry facilitated by language. Composed of interrelated and
rule-governed symbol systems, language is a social and uniquely
human means of representing, exploring, and communicating
meaning. As well as being a defining feature of culture, language
is an unmistakable mark of personal identity, and is essential for
forming interpersonal relationships, understanding social
situations, extending experience, reflecting on thought and action,
and contributing to a democratic society. Language is the primary
basis of all communication and the primary instrument of thought.
Language Acquisition and Development
Language learning is an active process that begins at birth and
continues throughout life. Students learn language as they use it to
communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, establish
relationships with family members and friends, and strive to make
sense and order of their world. They may come to school speaking
more than one language, or learn another language in school. It is
important to respect and build upon each student’s first language.
Experience in one language will benefit the learning of other
languages.
In their early years, children develop language informally. Long
before they understand explicit language rules and conventions,
they reproduce and use language to construct and convey new
meaning in unique ways. Later, language learning occurs in
specific contexts for specific purposes, such as learning about a
particular topic, participating in the community, and pursuing
work and leisure activities.
Language development is continuous and recursive. Students
enhance their language learning by using what they know in new
and more complex contexts and with increasing sophistication.
They reflect upon and use prior knowledge to extend and enhance
their language and understanding. By learning and incorporating
new language structures into their repertoire and using them in a
variety of contexts, students develop language fluency and
proficiency. Positive learning experiences in language-rich
environments enable students to leave school with a desire to
continue to extend their knowledge, skills and strategies, and
interests.
Language Learning: A Shared Responsibility
All students can be successful learners. Responsibility for
language learning is shared by students, parents, teachers, and the
community. Students require ongoing opportunities to use
language in its many forms. Opportunities to learn language occur
first at home and are extended as children move into the larger
community. Schools provide environments where students
continue to develop language knowledge, skills, and strategies to
achieve personal, social, and academic goals.
Language development is the responsibility of all teachers. For
example, subject area teachers teach the specialized language and
forms of each subject. Language arts teachers, however, have a
special role because of their focus on language, its forms and
functions. They help students develop and apply strategies for
comprehending, composing, and responding in a variety of
situations.
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S2 English Language Arts Language and Language Learning
Language and Language Learning
