IB MYP LANGUAGE A YEAR 4 - ENGLISH 9

Mrs. Lisa Hetman|lhetman@wvschools.ca

DESCRIPTION OF COURSE
Language is fundamental to thinking, learning, and communicating in all cultures. The
skilled use of language is associated with many opportunities in life, including further
education, work, and social interaction. As students come to understand and use
language more fully, they are able to enjoy the benefits and pleasures of language in all
its forms, from reading and writing to literature, theatre, public speaking, film, and
other media. They also come to understand language as a human system of
communication dynamic and evolving, but also systematic and governed by rules.
The English Language Arts curriculum provides students with opportunities to experience the power of language by
dealing with a range of texts and with the full range of contexts and purposes associated with the use of language.
The development of literacy is a key focus of this curriculum. The rapid expansion in the use of technology and media
has expanded the concept of what it is to be literate. Literacy today involves being able to understand and process
oral, written, electronic, and multi-media forms of communication.
The aims of the teaching and study of MYP Language A (English) are to encourage and enable the student to:
use the language as a vehicle for thought, creativity, reflection, learning and self-expression
use language as a tool for personal growth, social interaction and for developing relationships within the
international community
comprehend more clearly aspects of their own culture and those of other cultures by exploring the
interdependence of human beings through a variety of works
explore the many facets of the language through the use of media and information technology
develop the skills involved in speaking, listening, reading, writing and viewing in a variety of contexts
respond appropriately to a variety of texts
read widely to promote a lifelong interest in language and literature
develop a critical and creative approach to studying and analyzing literature
develop language skills through interdisciplinary work
consider the role of literature both culturally and historically reflect on the learning process in various ways
and at various stages
empathize with real people and fictional characters as and when appropriate.

FUNDEMENTAL IB CONCEPTS
This course addresses the fundamental IB concepts in the following ways.
International Mindedness: We will be reading from authors and contexts around the world and considering diverse
opinions and ways of being.
Intercultural Awareness: In all of our readings, viewings and discussions we aim to consider alternative perspectives
and build understanding of our own cultures and those of others.
Communication: We work to articulate ourselves through writing, reading, and oral language.
Holistic Learning: In all texts we consider issues dealing with emotional and social wellness.

Rockridge Secondary School: http://go45.sd45.bc.ca/schools/rockridge/Pages/default.aspx

METHODOLOGY and ASSESSMENT

This course will incorporate multiple ways of learning including discussion, lecture, project-based work, cooperative
learning, reflection, group inquiry and individual inquiry. Throughout the year, students will complete a variety of
assessments, including at least one essay, one response to literature, and one piece of creative writing in addition to
other assignments. Please go to the school website to view the criteria which will be used to assess students
achievement in this course.
The assessment process reveals what a student understands, knows and can do. The evaluation process indicates the
quality of performance based on learner outcomes (curriculum). Assessment and evaluation provide ongoing
feedback to teachers, students and parents in order to enhance student learning. Assessment and evaluation are
employed when teachers gather information (diagnostic), monitor student progress (formative), and evaluate
achievement of learning outcomes for the purpose of report card marks (summative).
Assessment in the MYP aims to:
support and encourage student learning by providing feedback on the learning process
promote positive student attitudes towards learning
promote a deep understanding of subject content by supporting students in their inquiries set in real world
contexts using the areas of interaction
promote the development of higher-order cognitive skills by providing rigorous final objectives that value
these skills
reflect the international-mindedness of the programme by allowing for assessments to be set in a variety of
cultural and linguistic contexts
support the holistic nature of the programme by including in its model principles that take account of the
development of the whole student.

MAJOR INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS / RESOURCES

Students must bring a journal, paper, and writing utensils

I will be providing students with a variety of text and online resources throughout the year.

OFFICE HOURS

Mrs. Hetman is available Monday to Friday 3:00-4:00 in P4

Please make an appointment: Lhetman@wvschools.ca

Rockridge Secondary School: http://go45.sd45.bc.ca/schools/rockridge/Pages/default.aspx