When I first heard the term ‘common core standards’ I did not know what it meant. Looking back, it seems quite obvious. The standards serve as a blueprint for what students should learn in English classes, and it is certainly challenging to teach students to comply with the set curriculum. If you are interested in this subject, here are some of the main takeaways from my English classes.
An Introduction To Form
One of the first things I learned in English class (which is currently taking place online through the Distance Education Council) is how to form a coherent argument. The teacher began the task by asking us to think of a story and then write it in the form of a letter. We had to take a quick survey about the topic and then research it for our assignments. The point of this task was to introduce us to the ‘form’ of a well-written letter or an essay. Using the story of Jack and Jill as an example, we learned that there should be a clear introduction, a body that makes sense and a conclusion that wraps it up.
Diction Is Key
One of the most challenging parts of putting together a well-written English essay is understanding how to use the right words. In order to achieve this, we have been assigned a task where we have to write an essay on a given topic. During this process, we have been taught how important it is to use the right diction. Looking back, I am certain that my English teachers stressed the importance of using words correctly more than the others, even if we did not understand why at the time. Perhaps, this is why I am so drawn to language itself, and learning new words and how to use them correctly. (If you liked this article, you may also enjoy my last blog post on the same matter).
Punctuation Is Essential
Another thing we have learned in English is how to use the right punctuation. To bring this point home, we have been asked to write an essay where we have to discuss the topic in detail. During this process, we have been assigned a task where we have to employ various ‘correct’ punctuation marks. This has given me a good understanding of how punctuation affects a written piece. One teacher even went as far as to say that if we do not use punctuation correctly, we are writing poor English. Looking back, I would certainly agree – using commas and periods appropriately is vital to producing a well-written piece.
The Use Of Parallel Structure
As we saw in the last point, punctuation is extremely important; however, there is more to good English than just knowing how to use commas and periods correctly. When we take into account the use of parallel structure, we are actually creating a stronger narrative. The English teachers we have had so far have stressed the value of this feature more than any other. One of the best things about using parallel structure is that it allows the reader to understand the main subject of the text more easily. Without it, the meaning of the essay may become confusing. In addition, we have been taught how important it is to use this feature correctly – too many or too few, as the case may be, will affect the coherence of the narrative. When used correctly, parallel structure adds strength to an argument by providing a clearer context for the reader. A good example of this feature in action can be found in the first few chapters of William Shakespeare’s The Tragedy of King Richard III – with the exception of a few lines, the entire play is written in verse; this allows the playwright to employ parallel structure easily as he weaves together a tale of treachery and murder.
Style Is Key
To wrap things up, I would like to mention one more thing that we have learned in English class. As before, this is something that has started to emerge more strongly now that we are learning how to write essays. In these, we are not just discussing the topic at hand but giving our opinion on it. In order to write a good essay, we have to follow certain rules that will cause our writing to stand out. One of the most important of these rules is to use appropriate style. To put it simply, if we are writing in a compelling and concise manner, using words that are meaningful and easy to understand, the overall effect will be engaging and add weight to our argument. When it comes to using language effectively, the best way to learn is by example. Therefore, throughout this process, we have been provided with many models of good English prose, which we have been asked to imitate.
These are just some of the things I have learned in English class. While I do not think that any one course can impart perfect English skills, I believe that the overall effect of these courses has been positive. As before, I believe that this is due mainly to our dedicated and hardworking teachers. If you would like to continue learning, why not consider an English-taught MA? With all the different career opportunities available, there should be something to suit your interests.