EDP1101

English and studies of society and environment

Dr I S Walker and Dr J Edwards

6 points - 3 hours per week - First semester - Peninsula

Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be aware of the need for and the value of English and studies of society and environment in children's learning; be aware of possible connections between these curriculum areas; be able to identify English and studies of society and environment concepts, generalisations, skills, values and attitudes; and understand a variety of appropriate learning models that can be applied in a range of social and linguistic contexts.

Synopsis This subject provides an introduction to the key concepts, teaching and evaluative methods involved in the English and studies of society and environment curricula. The subject considers language as having meaning within specific social, cultural or political contexts and examines ways in which children within different educational, familial, societal and cultural contexts learn and use language and literacy to achieve particular purposes. Students will examine a variety of learning environments and instructional materials, including inquiry learning, to develop the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes associated with English and studies of society and environment. An emphasis will be placed on students linking these two studies; in particular, how children's reading, writing, oracy and children's literature can be effectively used in explorations of children's own society to assist them in explaining its origins, diversity and dynamic nature.

Assessment Fieldwork tasks (1500 words): 40% - Examination: 60% - Hurdle requirement: group oral presentation

Recommended texts

Emmitt M and Pollock J Language and learning OUP, 1997
Marsh C (ed.) Teaching studies of society and environment Prentice-Hall, 1994

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