by Joanne Rossbridge

Students need to be able to use language in particular contexts. They also need to learn about language so that they can articulate the language choices that they or others have made. To do this students must have the 'metalaguage' to talk about language features, and they must also have opportunities to engage in talk about language. This PEN uses one aspect of grammar (noun groups) to explore the connections between 'learning to use' and 'learning about' language. Practical examples of student work and strategies using literature show how to use metalanguage in the classroom.