Language A

The aim of studying Language A in the MYP is to encourage students to develop a personal appreciation of literature; skills in literary criticism; strong written and oral skills; respect for the literary heritage of their first language and an international perspective. The range of texts studied in language A1 courses is broad, and students grow to appreciate a language’s complexity, wealth and subtleties in a variety of contexts. A specific aim is to engender a lifelong interest in literature and a love for the elegance and richness of human expression.

(IB Website 2007)

Objectives

The objectives of MYP Language A are divided into 3 criteria, which relate directly to the assessment criteria.

A: Content – this criterion refers to the student’s ability to demonstrate: an awareness of the function of Language A through critical and creative writing; an understanding of the works studied; and an effective response to literature
The students will demonstrate:

• a perceptive understanding of the relevant aspects of the topic or theme
• work that consistently displays illustrative detail, development and support
• creative pieces which reflect a high degree of imagination and sensitivity
• response to literature that develops sophisticated analysis of the author’s intention and techniques

B: Organization – this criterion covers the student’s ability to: express ideas with clarity and coherence; structure arguments in a sustained and logical fashion; and support these arguments with relevant examples
The students will demonstrate:

• work that is consistently well organised, clear and coherent, arguments are presented in a perceptive and persuasive manner
• paragraph structure and transitions effectively develop and substantiate the ideas being expressed. When such devices are required, critical conventions and apparatus are used in a sophisticated manner.

C: Style and Language Usage – this criterion refers to the student’s ability to use language for a variety of purposes, including description, analysis and persuasion. Appropriate register and language should be chosen, according to intention and audience
The students will demonstrate:

• use of vocabulary is always appropriate and greatly varied with very infrequent errors in spelling, pronunciation
• punctuation and syntax. The student has mastered the use of a register suitable to intention and audience.