Page 17 - THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 9–12 | Classical Studies and International Languages

Students’ attitude towards language learning can have a significant effect on their achieve- ment of the curriculum expectations. Teaching methods and learning activities that encourage students to recognize the value and relevance of what they are learning will go a long way towards motivating students to work and to learn effectively, and to recognize the interconnectedness of what they are learning in classical studies and international lan- guages with the world at large.
Students in classical studies and international languages courses need to realize that honing their skills is important and that real engagement with their studies requires hard work and continual self-assessment. Through practice, consolidation, and revision of their work, students deepen their understanding of the target language. Students can also extend their learning by participating in related school and community activities. Skills developed in the classroom can be applied in many other endeavours and in a variety of careers.
Parents
Parents10 play an important role in supporting student learning. Studies show that students perform better in school if their parents are involved in their education. By becoming familiar with the curriculum, parents can better appreciate what is being taught in the courses their daughters and sons are taking and what they are expected to learn. This awareness will enhance parents’ ability to discuss their children’s work with them, to communicate with teachers, and to ask relevant questions about their children’s progress. Knowledge of the expectations will also help parents understand how their children are progressing in school and enhance their ability to work with teachers to improve their children’s learning.
Parents can support their children’s learning effectively in a variety of ways. They can at- tend parent-teacher interviews, participate in parent workshops, and take part in school council activities or become a school council member. Parents who encourage and mon- itor home practice or project completion further support their children in their language and cultural studies. Parents can also go with their children to local cultural events con- nected with the language their children are studying (such as art exhibits, concerts, and festivals), whether or not their children are participating in the events themselves. These events often take place in community centres, places of worship, and public parks or schools, as well as in more formal venues, such as public galleries, museums, libraries, and concert halls.
In addition, parents can support their children’s learning in a second language by:
• demonstrating a positive and encouraging attitude about learning another language;
• demonstrating a positive attitude towards the target language at home and in the community;
• establishing a positive relationship with the teacher;
• getting involved in the school community;
• joining a community group to learn more about target-language resources and cultural opportunities.
10. The word parent(s) is used in this document to refer to parent(s) and guardian(s). It may also be taken to include caregivers or close family members who are responsible for raising the child.
INTRODUCTION
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