The English language is as difficult to learn and understand as it is versatile and truly magnificent. Most instructors fall short when it comes to instructing how the English language should be used and how to appropriately apply that language. It is my understanding that language is meant to break the barrier between people so that they might collaborate and empathize with each other simultaneously. However, language can also be used as a deadly-verbal weapon. Knowing this, there is both an appropriate way to instruct others how to use language, along with the inappropriate way. As an instructor I would inform my students of each use of the language, as each has their use in our world. Furthermore, it would be my duty as an instructor to allow my students any materials necessary in order to better understand our language.
Recognizing the difference between good use of the English language and an improper use is imperative to furthering education. Without a comprehensive knowledge of the English language, students will not be able to read and write as effectively as possible. That said, students wouldn't be capable of relaying their personal opinion and emotion through language, without which we would be autonomic emotionless robots.
So overall, as a future educator, the first thing I would teach my students is how powerful language can be if it's used properly. How language can be used to convey feelings, opinions, disagreements, understanding, and ultimately love.
Quentin,
ReplyDeleteI like your outlook of teaching students about the power of language. You could do this by looking at historical examples maybe. One question, what are some ways you could motivate or excite students who think that literature and writing are boring or "pointless?" It's something I think about as a future teacher because I know many of my students will not enter the classroom already passionate about these subjects.
Hey Quentin
ReplyDeleteI agree language is definitely a powerful tool at our disposal and alone can be enough motivation to get students to want to learn about it and gain something truly useful. Due to the fact that language is such a powerful thing I think that it should definitely be treated with respect. Some words are simply off limits to me if there not in the right context or just should not be said at all. I am a person who so far has had the experience of working with students who know what can and can not be said in the classroom, and if they do go over that imaginary line they always know. So for the most part I am always willing to trust a student's intuition when it comes to how language should best be used. What kinds of materials would you have available for them in this circumstance?