- Definition
Language conventions are the agreed-upon rules for how we write, like using correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation, so that others can easily understand our words.
Writing a capital letter at the beginning of your name is a language convention.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Language conventions are like the rules for getting dressed — we follow them so our writing makes sense to everyone.
Ask your child: Why do we use a big letter to start a name?
Common mix-up: Kids may think writing is just putting letters anywhere on the page. Language conventions are the rules that help everyone read our ideas.
Examples
- Putting a space between each word so they don't all run together.
- Placing a period at the end of a sentence to show it's finished.
language conventions is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
