Language and Literacy
Language and Literacy is an Area of Learning in the curriculum. It is not compulsory for pupils at Key Stage 4, but schools must offer access to at least one course that leads to a qualification in this Area of Learning.
There is no prescribed minimum content for Language and Literacy at Key Stage 4.
This area provides opportunities for young people to develop effective communication skills in relevant contexts. It gives pupils opportunities to appreciate and use language for a range of functional and creative purposes. It also promotes understanding of the nature of communication in different contexts. Pupils’ ability to shape and deconstruct messages in print and digital forms will be important throughout their lives.
Whole Curriculum Skills and Capabilities
To meet their statutory obligations, schools must ensure that pupils develop the Cross-Curricular Skills of Communication, Using Mathematics and Using ICT, and the Other Skills, and that teaching promotes the relevance of learning to everyday life and work.
It is likely that most schools will address their key statutory obligations for Communication by providing qualifications in English (and Gaeilge in Irish-medium settings). However, there are opportunities to develop Communication across all qualifications; these are outlined in our specifications.
Qualifications
We provide a range of qualifications that build on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed through this Area of Learning. These include:
Contact
For more information on Language and Literacy, contact: