GED0515

Methods and practice of teaching English A

Dr B Doecke

12 points - 3 hours per week - Full-year subject - Clayton - Prerequisites: English minor at tertiary level (major strongly recommended). Additional studies in applied linguistics are an advantage

Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should have developed knowledge and understanding of the history and development of subject English; recent theory and research in language and literacy education and their relevance in developing and implementing sound English curricula in secondary classrooms. Students should also have developed skills in planning, teaching and evaluating a wide range of programs using the English component of the Curriculum and Standards Framework series and VCE study designs and have the ability to use a range of assessments to evaluate student learning.

Synopsis This subject is designed to prepare students to teach across the range of post-primary English curricula. Students will examine current theory and practice in the teaching of English. They will have the opportunity to plan and evaluate lessons and units of work grounded in sound theories of language and learning and develop competence in a variety of teaching and organisational strategies appropriate for mixed ability classes at different year levels. The areas of study to be covered will include the teaching and assessment of writing, the study of texts, and oral language programs. Students will develop English programs based on current curricular frameworks, evaluate a range of resource materials for the teaching of English, and develop an understanding of the forms of evaluation and assessment appropriate to the teaching of English.

Assessment A precondition for a pass in this method is a pass in practice teaching and 80% attendance at all timetabled classes. A satisfactory level of achievement is also required for each of the following tasks - Development of curriculum materials and class presentations: 20% - Two major assignments (1500 words each): 80%

Recommended texts

AEC A statement on English for Australian schools Curriculum Corporation, 1994
AEC English: A curriculum profile for Australian schools Curriculum Corporation, 1994
Moffett J Active voice Boynton Cook, 1981
Sheeran Y and Barnes D School writing Open U P, 1991
Thomson J Understanding teenagers' reading Methuen, 1987
Victorian Board of Studies Curriculum and standards framework: English VBOS, 1995

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