theguardian.com
Oracy's Absence from England's Curriculum Review Sparks Concern
England's curriculum review interim report's exclusion of oracy, despite a rising number of children entering primary school with inadequate speech and language skills and the growing influence of AI, has dismayed school campaigners and highlights the need for improved verbal communication skills in education.
- What strategies can effectively integrate oracy into the curriculum, ensuring that it enhances communication skills without creating additional assessment pressures?
- The challenge lies in integrating oracy effectively into teaching without adding another assessment burden. The focus should be on fostering connection-making and confident self-expression, vital life skills less susceptible to automation and crucial for addressing social inequalities related to public speaking.
- How do the increasing numbers of children with inadequate speech and language skills and the impact of the pandemic and AI contribute to the renewed focus on oracy education?
- The exclusion of oracy from the curriculum review contrasts with a decade-long revival of its importance, driven by figures like former headteacher Peter Hyman. Rising numbers of children entering primary school with inadequate speech and language skills, exacerbated by the pandemic and the rise of AI, underscore the urgency of addressing this gap.
- What are the immediate implications of excluding oracy from the interim report of England's curriculum review, given the existing efforts to improve verbal communication in schools?
- The omission of oracy from England's curriculum review interim report has dismayed school campaigners, despite Sir Keir Starmer's previous support for teaching speaking skills. Over 1,000 schools already utilize the Voice 21 charity's program to improve verbal communication, highlighting the existing need and momentum for oracy education.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article is framed to strongly advocate for the inclusion of oracy in the English curriculum. The headline and introduction highlight the dismay of campaigners and the hope for rectification, setting a sympathetic tone towards the cause. The article primarily features proponents of oracy, amplifying their arguments and concerns. While acknowledging challenges, the framing generally emphasizes the positive aspects and necessity of oracy education.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral and objective, though words like "enthused" and "dismayed" carry a slightly emotional tone. However, these words reflect the sentiments expressed by those involved, rather than imposing a bias. The overall tone is persuasive but not aggressively biased.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the benefits of oracy and the concerns surrounding its absence from the curriculum review, but it omits counterarguments or perspectives that might question the emphasis on oracy or suggest alternative approaches to improving communication skills. While acknowledging the rising number of children with speech and language difficulties, it doesn't delve into the potential causes beyond the pandemic and AI, which could be a significant oversight. There is no discussion of the potential drawbacks or challenges associated with increased emphasis on oral communication in education, such as increased workload for teachers or potential disparities in access to resources.
False Dichotomy
The article doesn't present a false dichotomy in the strictest sense, but it implicitly frames the debate as a simple choice between prioritizing oracy or neglecting it, overlooking the complexities of curriculum design and the potential for integrating oracy into existing subjects rather than treating it as a separate entity. The implication is that improving oracy is a simple solution to complex challenges, which might be an oversimplification.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the importance of oracy (speaking and listening) in education, addressing a gap in the current curriculum review. Improving oracy skills is directly linked to improving the quality of education, enhancing communication, and preparing students for future success. The article notes that many students enter primary school with below-expected speech and language skills, directly impacting their educational outcomes. Addressing this deficiency through focused oracy education is crucial for achieving quality education for all.