CSEC English Syllabus (May–June 2027) Vocabulary

This vocabulary set defines key terms, assessment profiles, discourse types, and exam command verbs required for the CSEC English A and B syllabuses starting May-June 2027.

Credentialing

The issuing of formal certification for successful achievement of a defined set of outcomes targeting specific knowledge, skills, and competencies; includes granting awards or digital units of measurement for learning.

Micro-credential

A stackable award granted after the successful completion of a single discrete module within the CSEC English A or English B syllabus.

Intermediate credential

An award granted after the successful completion of a set of defined modules that together make up a full CSEC subject.

Macro-credential

An award granted after completing a combination of intermediate subjects and micro-credentials that result in a certificate, diploma, or associate degree.

Understanding (Profile Dimension)

The ability to decode and interpret messages through the recognition of language structures and devices used in any given context.

Analysing (Profile Dimension)

The ability to examine the use of language and literary skills and techniques.

Evaluating and Creating (Profile Dimension)

The ability to convey meaning through the selection of language structures and devices appropriate to each specific context.

Discourse: Informative

Also known as expository discourse, its main purpose is to inform or explain.

Discourse: Literary

Discourse used to entertain or stir feeling.

Discourse: Persuasive

Discourse used to convince, direct, or motivate an audience.

Syntax

The ways in which words are ordered and connected to form phrases or sentences with particular meaning.

Morphology

The ways in which the form of words and fixed phrases, and the changes made to them, affect meaning.

Diction

Careful word choice that matches style, tone, and mood to the purpose, situation, audience, and content of discourse.

Denotative Language

Dictionary meaning of a word used for literal, objective understanding.

Connotative Language

Language that suggests feelings or emotional responses, often involving emotional, cultural, or social associations.

Reflecting

The seventh facet of the language arts (alongside listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing, and visually representing) used as a tool to clarify understanding.

Register

The selection of language indicating a specific level of formality.

Code

Language peculiar to a specific group.

Plan of Investigation (SBA)

An introduction to the SBA topic (125-150 words) outlining why the theme was chosen, how information will be collected, and expected benefits.

Artefacts (SBA)

Three collected pieces of material (print, audio, or visual) that address the selected SBA sub-topic, including identifiable language strategies; one must be print.

Writing Task (SBA)

An original response of 250-400 words related to the sub-topic in a chosen genre (Narrative, Informative, Persuasive, or Drama).

APA Documentation Style

The specific bibliographic style required for acknowledging sources at the conclusion of the School-Based Assessment.

Compare (Exam Task Verb)

To examine the similarities as well as differences between subjects to reach a general conclusion.

Comment (Exam Task Verb)

To examine how a writer uses different elements to create effect and meaning, taking into account purpose and theme.

Contrast (Exam Task Verb)

An instruction indicating that only the differences between subjects must be provided.

Discuss (Exam Task Verb)

To provide an extended answer exploring related concepts and issues using detailed examples without necessarily drawing a conclusion.

Identify (Exam Task Verb)

To extract relevant information from the stimulus without explanation.

Illustrate (Exam Task Verb)

To provide examples to demonstrate or prove the subject of a question.

Summarise (Exam Task Verb)

To present the main points, ideas, or concepts in one's own words as far as possible.