Page 16 - THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 9–12 | Classical Studies and International Languages

THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 9–12 | Classical Studies and International Languages
International language learners will be more successful if they have opportunities to
use the language in a broad range of real-life contexts, as discussed under “Authentic Communication” above. Meaningful contact with individuals that speak the target language in their community enables students to develop their language learning skills in real-life situations.
When students are unable to interact with proficient speakers of the target language in their community, teachers can use authentic materials, electronic communications, and multimedia resources to support language learning. Teachers can also facilitate student participation in exchanges, language camps or immersion experiences, and field trips or longer excursions. Schools or communities can be twinned, and visitors invited into the school.
Students of classical studies will benefit from making connections to other subjects they are studying or encountering, such as the extensive use of Greek and Latin in science contexts, the various social sciences that originated in the classical era, and so on. Outside the classroom, they may begin to notice references to classical mythology, philosophy, or languages in the various forms of fiction and non-fiction media they consume.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE CLASSICAL STUDIES AND INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGES PROGRAM
Students
Students’ responsibilities with respect to their own learning develop gradually and increase over time as they progress through elementary and secondary school. With appropriate instruction and with experience, students come to see how an applied effort can enhance learning and improve achievement and well-being. As they mature and as they develop the ability to persist, to manage their behaviour and impulses, to take responsible risks, and to listen with understanding, students become better able to take more responsibility for their learning and progress. There are some students, however, who are less able to take full responsibility for their learning because of unique challenges they face. The attention, patience, and encouragement of teachers can be extremely important to the success of these students. Learning to take responsibility for their achievement and improvement is an important part of every student’s education, regardless of his or her circumstances.
Mastering the skills and concepts connected with learning in the classical studies and international languages curriculum requires ongoing practice, an effort to respond to feedback (to the extent possible), personal reflection, and commitment from students. It also requires a willingness to try new activities, work with peers, and always follow safety practices. Through ongoing practice and reflection about their development, students deepen their appreciation and understanding of themselves and others, and of their health and well-being.
Students benefit most when they:
• make a sincere commitment to learning and to the development of interactive skills in the classroom;
• take increasing responsibility for their individual progress and learning;
• pursue opportunities outside the classroom to listen to and speak the target language.
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