EDF3004 - Language and literacy

Leader: Dr A Kostogriz (Clayton) + Dr W Sutherland-Smith (Gippsland)

Offered

Clayton First semester 2007 (Day)
Gippsland Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit provides students with an understanding of the role and nature of literacy in the secondary school. It has a cross-curricular focus and examines the role of language in learning and the different reading and writing practices which characterise different school units. Students will explore the interface between home and school literacy practices, the needs of students from non-English speaking backgrounds, the language and literacy of students from socially disadvantaged backgrounds, the gendered character of literacy, the relationship between teenage culture and the language and culture of schooling. Students will have the opportunity for active participation in workshops.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit students should have developed an understanding of the role which language plays in learning; have developed an understanding of the relationship between language and cultural identify; have become aware of the literacy demands of specific school subjects; have developed a differentiated understanding of the nature of reading and writing across a range of subject areas; be familiar with a range of linguistic theories that describe school literacy (such as 'genre' theory and 'critical literacy'); be familiar with recent literacy policy documents at both a federal and state level; be able to analyse the literacy practices in classrooms and other school settings; be sensitive to the linguistic diversity of school communities; have begun to develop a capacity to recognise and respond to the literacy needs of secondary school students; be familiar with a range of policy and curriculum initiatives ('middle schooling', 'transition', bilingualism, parent participation, cross-curricular practices) that are intended to enhance the literacy of students.

Assessment

Assignment 1 (1,500 words): 30% Assignment 2 (1,500 words): 30% Assignment 3 (1,500 words): 40% +Attendance requirement of at least 80%

Contact hours

2 hours per week

Prerequisites

(Clayton students) EDF1301 [or EDF1303], and EDF1302 [or EDF1304]; EDF2001 [or EDF2004], and EDF2002 [or EDF2005]; (Gippsland students) EDF1301 [or EDF1303], EDF1302 [or EDF1304]; Plus EDF2003.