Using plain language

Organisation piloting the Good Practice

Luovi Vocational College

Country

Finland

Description of the good practice

Plain language is an understandable general language that does not contain special vocabulary or obscure structures.

When you want to write clearly, please note these things:

  • Prefer standard and easy-to-understand vocabulary.
  • Use active verbs. Avoid heavy use of the passive voice.
  • Prefer subordinate clauses to clause clauses.
  • Write out abbreviations and explain new terms at least at the first mention.
  • Encourage a smooth flow of information: explain familiar facts and broad outlines first, then new facts and small details.

Background

Students with learning difficulties and immigrants benefit from clear language, plain language. It is easier, for example, to follow the given instructions when using plain language. It helps to work independently, when the instructions are given step by step with a clear language.

Steps to take if you want to implement the good practice from planning to execution and evaluation if included

  1. Make a decision on using the plain language.
  2. Choose a group of students, for example immigrants.
  3. Make clear instructions on for example how to use a washing machine or how to bake a cake.
  4. Instructions can be written on a paper or for example opened through a QR code.
  5. Explain the instructions step by step to the students.
  6. You can also use pictures to support the written instructions.
  7. Observe how the students follow the instructions.

Target group/s of the practice

Students with learning difficulties, immigrants, elderly people, small children, actually all can benefit from plain language.

Benefits, impact on the students and learning outcomes

  • Increases independent working and studying. 
  • Better learning outcomes when you are able to understand the language you use, read and write. 
  • Helps to take care of your own affairs.
  • Immigrants who study a new language can learn easily and better understand the culture.
  • Supports becoming an active citizen of the society.

Suggestions for future users of this good practice

You can use plain language in all study fields. You can give instructions by using a mobile, QR codes etc not only written on a paper.

Other languages

Albania – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Kosovo – Montenegro