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

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE CLASSICAL STUDIES AND INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGES
CURRICULUM
Language learning occupies an important place in the building of academic and social foundations for students so that they are equipped to become responsible members of our global society. Today’s students are living in a global community where communication on the international stage is of crucial importance and knowledge of multiple languages is an invaluable asset. Such linguistic abilities benefit the individual, but Canadian society also stands to gain from developing a multilingual and culturally sensitive workforce. Therefore, the “teaching and learning of any one language should be seen in conjunction with the overall objective of promoting plurilingualism and linguistic diversity.”3 Language learning programs provide the “value-added benefit of developing second [or third] language and cross-cultural skills at no cost to other educational goals.”4
Experience in a classical studies and international languages program can play a valuable role in students’ broader education. Such experience allows students to develop and refine the important communication skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, not only in the language of study but also in English. Students also develop their creativity, learn about their own identity, learn to express themselves with confidence, develop their ability to solve problems, and gain insights into the world around them. All of these skills together enable students to analyse and use information from around the world and to communicate and interact effectively in the language of study.5
Language is a fundamental element of culture and identity. Through studying a language associated with another culture or cultures, students deepen their appreciation of diverse perspectives and learn to approach and connect with others with open-mindedness, patience, and flexibility. They learn to respect the identities of others and the complex interrelationship among peoples – essential in the Ontario and Canada of today.
Courses in classical studies and international languages naturally involve the exploration of a wide variety of topics related to the language of study and the cultures associated with it, including art and archaeology, mythology and literature, history and geography, business, tourism, social customs, material culture, and world issues. As a consequence, these courses lend themselves to an interdisciplinary approach. Links can also be made to other disciplines. For example, students taking history, geography, and social sciences can gain insights into other cultures and time periods by studying languages from a variety of historical, social, and cultural contexts.
Taking courses in classical studies and international languages also increases career mobility, since successful participation in the global workforce depends in part on knowledge of world languages and cultures. These courses enable students to develop many skills, abilities, and attitudes that are critical in the workplace – for example, communication and problem-solving skills, adaptability, and the ability to work with others. Students develop their ability to reason, to be flexible in their thinking, and to think critically as well as creatively. They gain experience in using various forms of technology. Language
3. Enrica Piccardo, “Plurilingualism and Curriculum Design: Toward a Synergic Vision”, TESOL Quarterly 47 (2013): 603.
4. Fred Genesee and Nancy Cloud, “Multilingualism Is Basic”, Educational Leadership 55, no. 6 (1998): 63.
5. The term language of study is used in this document to refer to classical and/or international languages in general. The term target language is used throughout the document to refer only to an international language.
INTRODUCTION
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