ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces and defines discourse as a key concept in curriculum. James Paul Gee highlights how crucial language is for teaching and learning, and then connects language and grammar to the term discourse. Gee argues that paying attention to how language works in and out of the classroom is valuable practice for teachers and learners and that, in essence, involves becoming discourse analysts, considering meaning and choice in language. This introduction to the concept of discourse in curriculum theory is accompanied by personal reflections on the key concept from two individuals who further explore the relevance of discourse in their lives. The chapter concludes with some suggested discussion questions for use in curriculum studies courses and by curriculum theory students.
