málsetningar

Málsetningar, often translated as "language objectives," are an essential component of second language acquisition pedagogy. They provide explicit learning goals for students concerning how they will use language to learn content. Unlike content objectives, which focus on what students will know or be able to do with subject matter, málsetningar highlight the linguistic skills students need to achieve those content goals.

These objectives are typically framed using action verbs that describe communicative functions and language structures. For example, a málsetning might be "Students will be able to explain cause and effect relationships using transition words like 'because,' 'so,' and 'therefore'." This clarifies the specific language skills students are expected to develop and practice during a lesson.

The purpose of málsetningar is to make language learning intentional and visible for students, particularly for English Language Learners or those struggling with academic language. By clearly stating and focusing on these language goals, educators can scaffold instruction more effectively and ensure that students are not only accessing content but also developing the linguistic tools necessary for academic success. They bridge the gap between understanding content and being able to articulate that understanding in the target language.