Language Acquisition

According to the MYP Language acquisition guide, the aims of the teaching and learning of MYP language acquisition are to:

• gain proficiency in an additional language while supporting maintenance of their mother tongue and cultural heritage

• develop a respect for, and understanding of, diverse linguistic and cultural heritages

• develop the student’s communication skills necessary for further language learning, and for study, work and leisure in a range of authentic contexts and for a variety of audiences and purposes

• enable the student to develop multiliteracy skills through the use of a range of learning tools, such as multimedia, in the various modes of communication

• enable the student to develop an appreciation of a variety of literary and non-literary texts and to develop critical and creative techniques for comprehension and construction of meaning

• enable the student to recognize and use language as a vehicle of thought, reflection, self-expression and learning in other subjects, and as a tool for enhancing literacy

• enable the student to understand the nature of language and the process of language learning, which comprises the integration of linguistic, cultural and social components

• offer insight into the cultural characteristics of the communities where the language is spoken

• encourage an awareness and understanding of the perspectives of people from own and other cultures, leading to involvement and action in own and other communities

• foster curiosity, inquiry and a lifelong interest in, and enjoyment of, language learning.