The Power of Language Essay Victoria Sovick

The power of language can be extremely transforming and has the influence to change and shape

the world. Language, written or verbal, has helped with the passing down of historical

information, traditions, and knowledge. Language also is a key component to communicating

with others. Alex Shashkevich writes “Speaking, writing, and reading are integral to everyday

life, where language is the primary tool for expression and communication.” As future educators

it is our job to ensure that we equip our students with language so they can be a successful

member of society. As we learned from our reading the four C’s of 21st century skills are:

communication, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. As educators we must look at

ways we are going to teach these skills to our students. The world is constantly changing and we

must keep up with the demands and new ways of incorporating language into the curriculum.

The 21st century has ushered in changes and new technologies that have caused teachers to teach

differently. 10 years ago, the social media world was not as prevelant as it is today. Educators are

now having to teach students online more frequently and equip students with the skills of

language for the 21st century. We want students to be well educated and a productive citizen and

the way we ensure that happens is to teach children how to communicate with language in the

world. Whether that is with writing a text, emailing, through social media, talking directly to

someone, or on the phone; teaching students about language is crucial.

Teachers are tasked with a duty of educating students. As educators we are responsible

for teaching literacy and language development among other subjects with students. Without

language how can we teach? Even if I am going to become a math teacher, I still need my

students to have language skills so I can communicate with them. This is why language and

literacy are so important. Teachers have a moral responsibility to teach and help our students
The Power of Language Essay Victoria Sovick

grow. Governments and states have curriculum and standards to follow as a guideline to help

understand what students should be learning and what they should know. For example, usually

by first grade, most students start beginning to read. Families and parents help children with their

language development until the age they enter school. Then as educators it is our role to help

continue to foster that development in the child. That’s when Grammar and other tools come into

play. Grammar is an important piece to literacy, reading, writing, and speaking. Richard

Nordqust quotes the National Council of Teachers of English as saying, “Grammar is important

because it is the language that makes it possible for us to talk about language. Grammar names

the types of words and word groups that make up sentences not only in English but in any

language.”

As an educator I will ensure that I am teaching my students the strategies to become

successful at communicating, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. I can do this by

using what I have learned and the resources I have been given. Such as the tools I have learned in

this course. Incorporating phonemic awareness, teaching syntax and correct grammar can help

support my students with their learning. Ensuring I am aware of the standards, allowing time to

prep, plan and incorporate student engagement strategies can help me become a better teacher.

There are lots of resources to support teachers, all one needs to do is look and ask around.

As an educator, knowing oneself is important. I know that my faith plays an important

role in my life and helps guide me in all that I do, which will affect the way I teach as well.

Teachers are expected to follow rules and guidelines to educate their students. Educators have

responsibilities to ensure they are educating students appropriately and properly. Supporting

student needs and safety is a priority to ensure that preparing students for 21st century citizenship

is possible. God has been good and I have been blessed with wonderful educators in my life and
The Power of Language Essay Victoria Sovick

I know that I can be a blessing and support to my students. I know that the job of a teacher is no

easy task, but I am excited to fulfill the role.

The Power of Language Essay Victoria Sovick

References

Nordquist, R. (2019). Why grammar is a timeless subject to study and teach. Dotdash Meredith
Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/why-does-grammar-matter-
1691029

Shashkevich, A. (2019). The power of language: How words shape, people, culture. Stanford
News. Stanford University. Retrieved from https://news.stanford.edu/2019/08/22/the-
power-of-language-how-words-shape-people-culture/