Course Outline The aim in teaching Gaelic at this level is to encourage interest in and arouse curiosity about the Gaelic heritage. Initially, students are taught common conversational phrases so they may experience a sense of satisfaction and achievement. The use of songs, games, and stories is very helpful at this stage. The songs and stories should be drawn from local tradition, if possible. This allows the students to receive approval in their own environment. Students should have the opportunity to become familiar with historical events of particular significance to Canadians with a Scottish background. The lives of famous Canadians who share this common bond should be studied. It would be advantageous to have a particular classroom assigned to the teacher of Gaelic. The teacher may then create a better learning environment where language, social studies, and cultural projects can be integrated as part of the Gaelic program. In grades 7–9, students continue to develop aural/oral skills in Gaelic and to provide the opportunity to deepen the students’ understanding of Nova Scotia’s Gaelic culture. At this level, students are also introduced to the skills of reading and writing in Gaelic. A minimum of 25 per cent of class time should be provided for this in the early stages. This focus should permit the students to profit from their previously acquired skills, both for their further development and as a base for reading and writing. It is, however, important that speaking and aural comprehension not be neglected. At the end of this stage, the student should be able to use a four-skill approach (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) to prepare simple compositions for both oral and written presentations. Outcomes Demonstrate an understanding of and convey some basic everyday courtesy phrases; respond to dimple questions about self. Demonstrate an understanding of and convey basic information about common topics. Demonstrate an understanding of an convey simple language for giving instructions and directions in a school setting. Demonstrate an understanding of and use a variety of everyday courtesy phrases; respond to questions about self. Demonstrate an understanding of and use information about common topics and past events. Demonstrate an understanding of and use language for giving instructions and directions and respond to same. Demonstrate an understanding of an use simple expressions of feelings and opinions. Demonstrate an understanding of an use a wider range of courtesy expressions, questions, and answers; respond to questions about self and others. Demonstrate an understanding of and use information and commune topics, past events, future intentions. Demonstrate an understanding of and use more complex language structures for giving instructions and directions and respond to same. Demonstrate an understanding of and use a variety of expressions of feelings, opinions, and preferences. Read simple signs, phrases, and instructions and demonstrate comprehension. Read and respond to texts consisting of language from a familiar context. Read familiar texts to extract specific information. Read and write to respond to texts using more complex structures. Create Gaelic texts. Recognize the value of one's own culture, and the culture, lifestyle, and experiences of the Gaels. Demonstrate respect for and understanding of the culture, lifestyle, and experiences of the Gael in Nova Scotia, and make connections to one's own culture. Demonstrate a deeper awareness of the evolution and impact of Gaelic culture in the wider global community Updated April 2, 2024