Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit addresses second language proficiency and the teaching of English to speakers of other languages. It also examines current research into the nature of speaking, writing, reading and listening and its implications for teaching in second-language classrooms. Other topics include vocabulary, grammar and integration of language and content; the role of the ESOL teacher in primary, post-primary and adult teaching contexts, and methodological approaches in second languages.

Objectives

The learning objectives of this unit are to:

• understand the notion of communicative competence in a second or foreign language;
• understand the implications of this notion for formal language instruction in listening, speaking, reading and writing skills;
• recognise the differing language learning needs of adult and of child learners in a range of contexts; and
• become familiar with techniques and strategies which can be adapted to meet those different needs.

Assessment

Reports (4000 words) 50%
Research paper (4000 words) 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Dat Bao

Contact hours

3 hours per week