Oral Language

Moats (2020) defined oral language as encompassing phonological skills, syntax, morphological skills, pragmatics and semantics. The acquisition of these skills often begins at a young age, before learners begin focusing on print-based concepts. In this document, the term oral language includes the understanding and use of receptive and expressive language, and its connection to background knowledge as a means of communication. Although oral language is often inherent, it continues to evolve as students are supported in a variety of learning experiences. 

To support the understanding of this terminology, each of these language components are defined as follows: 

▪ Morphology refers to morphemes, the smallest units of meaning in language, such as the “ed” in walked tells us it is something that happened in the past, and how they are combined to form words. ▪ Semantics refers to the meaning of words and phrases, including vocabulary knowledge. ▪ Syntax, sometimes simply referred to as grammar, is the set of rules that dictate the ways in which words and phrases can be combined into sentences and paragraphs. It is essential to use correct syntax in order to communicate messages that are meaningful and easy to understand. ▪ Pragmatic refers to the social use of language. This includes a variety of social norms regarding how to participate in communication including how to take turns in a conversation, interact in a group, maintain personal space, and use appropriate behaviour with different communication partners or in different settings. ▪ Phonology and Phonological Skills have been addressed under the Reading section. Considerations for Implementation ▪ Think-Pair-Share ▪ Discussion and questioning ▪ Dialogic discussion ▪ Provide wait time ▪ Culturally responsive non-verbal communication ▪ Model and explain complex vocabulary and syntax within classroom discussions and read alouds ▪ Opportunities for reciprocal teaching ▪ Ask and encourage open-ended questions