Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to assess the language needs of ESL students and plan through language-related goals and objectives. Students should also be able to develop materials and teaching activities which meet the diverse needs of ESL students, provide optimal conditions for language learning and evaluate the effectiveness of ESL programs. Students should have developed attitudes of valuing the diverse cultural and language backgrounds of ESL students and being sensitive to differences between the students' culture and that of the wider Australian community. Students should be able to work effectively with all staff members to promote a whole school approach to the language needs of ESL and NESB students.
Synopsis The focus of this subject is on the practical application of current theories of language acquisition as applied to the teaching of English as a second language in an Australian secondary school setting. Students are introduced to current curriculum issues affecting TESL and a range of approaches and materials. Students are assisted in using these models as the basis for the development of their own teaching strategies and materials. Students will also develop understandings of the diverse cultural and educational background of ESL learners and the implications of this for their classroom teaching. Students will complete a number of focussed observations of both teachers and learners, a case study of an ESL learner and develop a unit of work focused on the needs of a group of ESL learners with whom they have been working.
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 Focused observations: 30% + Case study (2000 words): 30% + Unit of work: 40%