Core Concepts

What are concepts, and why are they important?

According to Lynn Erickson, concepts are mental constructs that are timeless, universal, broad and abstract. Approaching learning with concepts in mind will invite you to make broad connections between the things you are studying, the things you already know, and questions that you may have. As a result, you will develop rich, nuanced understandings that can be transferred beyond a particular text, lesson, unit, or subject.

Use this links on this page as an introduction to each of the concepts, then challenge yourself to reflect upon them as you read and discuss literature in class.

Creativity

Culture

Communication

Identity

Perspective

Transformation

Representation

Exploring The Core Concepts

Click the image to access some interesting articles that explore the way different texts operate in the world. Each article is accompanied with suggested concepts to look out for and focus questions.

Although this work isn't mandatory, expanding your understanding of these concepts will improve your English studies.