German B - Copenhagen International School

Language A
Language A Department Philosophy Statement
Language is fundamental to all human learning. Language skills are the basis for effective
communication and life­long learning in our multi­cultural world. Aesthetic appreciation of language
means that language and literature can transect culture and time, allowing us to recognise our shared
humanity whilst acknowledging our individual and cultural diversities.
At CIS language arts students explore, critically and creatively, the multi­facetted richness of
language and genres through which ideas are expressed. Through the study of literature and
universal themes, as well as through their own writing, oral expression, and experience, our students
participate in a meaningful, critical and reciprocal discourse about human experience and
communication. The student´s personal voice and his/her appreciation of multiple textual
perspectives are crucial factors in the development of language skills and literary appreciation.
In the four areas of language development (reading, writing, listening and speaking), our students are
offered rich opportunities to experience, appreciate, and explore diverse texts reflecting diversity of
expression, experience and viewpoint. Through learning about the systems of language, our students
acquire the tools necessary to communicate their ideas in the appropriate context in the appropriate
register in a structured and meaningful way.
During the first three years of the MYP programme, all the written and oral skills, processes,
investigations and expressions are deepened and developed via reading, discussion, oral
presentations, written productions and projects both within the Language A classroom and in crosscurricular
activities. The Areas of Interaction are natural and ongoing parts of the programme. The
student is central to the process of learning and his/her engagement is imperative – joyful and
enquiry­based learning is at the heart of language development and expression. In these three years
the student learns to work both collaboratively and independently. Students are introduced to the
MYP Language A criteria in MYP 1 ­ 3. By MYP 4­5 students are expected to have a full and practical
understanding and usage of the criteria.
Expectations of IB MYP 1­3 students
1. Teacher­student and student­student relations are governed by reciprocal respect, courtesy
and patience. Basic courtesy enhances our learning environment.
2. Students are expected to be engaged and diligent, and to read regularly. Students come
prepared to class with the basic tools of learning (notebook, pen, pencil, erasers) and
whatever text is being worked on. It is recommended that a good dictionary and a Thesaurus
are available at home. Students maintain books, binders, folders, etc. in neat and organised
order.
3. Students participate in the class. They actively listen, diligently taking notes and participating
politely in class discussions.
4. Students complete assignments neatly with due attention paid to writing/word processing.
There are guidelines for manuscript writing in the student agenda. Additionally, an organized
notebook is be kept by students and it is periodically checked and assessed.
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