Page 223 - THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 9–12 | Classical Studies and International Languages

The definitions provided in this glossary are specific to the curriculum context in which the terms are used.
Terms that apply throughout the document are listed under “General Terms”. Terms that apply only to classical languages and to the Classical Civilization course are listed under “Classical Studies”.
Instructional strategies are for the most part not included in the glossary. A list of relevant strategies, with detailed explanations of each, is given in Appendix C (on the preceding pages).
GENERAL TERMS
achievement levels. Brief descriptions
of four different degrees of student achievement of the provincial curriculum expectations for any given grade. Level 3 is the “provincial standard”. Parents of students achieving at level 3 in a particular grade can be confident that their children will be prepared for work at the next grade level. Level 1 identifies achievement that falls much below the provincial standard. Level 2 identifies achievement that approaches the standard. Level 4 identifies achievement that surpasses the standard.
action-oriented approach. An approach to language learning in which language is seen as a tool for performing communica- tive tasks or activities in a social context.
adapted text. A text that has been rewritten so that the reading level is easier and students can more easily make connections to prior knowledge and determine mean- ing. Adaptations to the text may include simplifying and/or defining relevant vocabulary, using short, relatively simple sentences, and maintaining a consistent
format (e.g., a topic sentence followed by several sentences providing supporting details, all of which are relevant to the content).
alliteration. The deliberate repetition of sounds or syllables, especially initial consonants, for stylistic effect (e.g., recreational reading and writing).
alphabet. A standardized set of letters or symbols used in writing to represent sounds in the spoken language. See also writing system.
anchor charts. Charts designed by the class or by the teacher that list reference items (e.g., parts of speech; listening, speaking, reading, and/or writing strategies; commonly used verbs; idiomatic expressions) or steps, procedures, and/or processes for a particular activity (e.g., the stages of the writing process, procedures for a literature circle).
antonym. A word opposite in meaning to another word (e.g., hot/cold).
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GLOSSARY