Language in the Classroom
Language is an enormous part of learning. It is the sole foundation to academic achievement; without it teachers fail to teach and students fail to learn. Thus far in my education I have discovered that the major connections between language and learning are paying attention, note taking, studying, and participation.
Paying attention in class is vital to learning and absorbing the information the teacher gives out. Listening in class is a form of auditory learning; auditory learning is listening to the teacher and hearing what he or she has to say. Everyone learns in a different way, but listening in class is a way that I find very useful and helpful for me. I find it easier to pay attention in class and listen to the teacher when I have taken my notes before class so that I can follow along and add in anything I might have missed. In my art history class it is very difficult for me to pay attention to the art work while taking notes, so instead I make sure to take a few notes beforehand so I can listen to my teacher and look at the art without distraction.
Note taking is another form of language in learning. I am an avid note taker. Taking notes helps me learn the material so that I can apply it in class and in my career of choice. Chemistry is a very complex subject, so I take very detailed and organized notes for myself to refer back to when I am doing homework or studying for an exam. Note taking is great because I
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can replicate a diagram or formula for myself to go back to later on. I use my notes most of the time when I study because it is in my own words; therefore, it is easier for me to understand and remember.
Studying is a key component for learning. I study my own notes, my textbook and the lectures I receive from my professors. Reading is a form of language; it is how authors, professors, and experts can communicate with us to make the material more comprehendible. My sociology class requires a tremendous amount of reading a day, but without reading I would not have a full understanding of the material.
Participation is the definition of language, in my opinion, because it requires speech and movement which is communication at its finest. For me participation is one of the most important connections between language and communication. I am not afraid to ask questions on something I do not know or understand. In my chemistry lab participation is required and graded. I have to ask questions in lab so that I can perform safely and learn how to do my experiment correctly. I am not one to care about others’ opinions as to whether or not my question was absurd because when I ask a question, it is most likely vital to my academic performance.
Paying attention, note taking, studying and participation are major connections between language and learning. Doing all of these things is vital to a meaningful education and proper application in the academic world.