GED3833

Theory and practice of second-language education

Dr M M Gearon

12 points - 3 hours per week - First semester - Clayton - Prerequisites: A major post-Year 12 in a language other than English or its equivalent and demonstrated language proficiency and an initial teaching qualification

Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should have a basic understanding of the SLA principles which influence current classroom teaching approaches in LOTE; developed a reflective approach to the teaching-learning of a LOTE in Victorian secondary and primary schools; produced a glossary of key terms related to theory and principles of second-language or LOTE teaching and learning; developed a critical analysis of classroom practices of second-language teachers; developed a sequence of appropriate lesson plans for a range of learners and learning skills in a specific educational setting.

Synopsis This subject examines the notion of language proficiency and surveys second-language education, particularly the teaching of languages other than English over the last forty years. It refers to current research on the nature of speaking, listening, reading and writing; implications are drawn for the teaching of these four macroskills in the second-language classroom. The subject also includes sessions on the following aspects of second-language teaching: the teaching of vocabulary and grammar, the assessment of language proficiency, teaching content through a second language. A range of curriculum models and methodological approaches are reviewed. The role of the L2 teacher in the primary, secondary and adult teaching contexts is considered. This subject is a prerequisite for GED3834F (Advanced practicum in language teaching - LOTE).

Assessment Written record of observation of a classroom (1000 words): 25% - Participation in seminars and workshops: 5% - One major written assignment (3500 words): 70% - Glossary (500 words)

Recommended texts

Brown H D Teaching by principles Prentice-Hall, 1994
Ur P A course in language teaching Cambridge University Press, 1996

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