Module LANG41215: ISSUES IN LANGUAGE STUDY AND TEACHING

Department: Language Centre

LANG41215: ISSUES IN LANGUAGE STUDY AND TEACHING

Pre-requisites

Corequisites

Excluded Combinations

Aims

• At the end of the module, students will:
• Have full working knowledge of current mainstream linguistic theories
• Have full understanding of the influence of linguistic theory on language teaching/learning
• Be able to critically evaluate new proposals in linguistic theory in terms of their applicability to language teaching
• Be able to apply relevant methods of enquiry to investigate issues in language teaching within the framework of current linguistic theory

Content

• This module bridges the gap between linguistic theory and classroom teaching. It begins with a survey of the range of theories that currently exist and then addresses issues in language learning/teaching that arise when applying theory to the classroom. For instance, attention will be given to the theoretical basis of Krashen’s Monitor Model when it was proposed and more currently. The generative perspective on language will be contrasted with a functional perspective in terms of its usefulness in the classroom. And empirical work supporting trends in language teaching, such as the lexical approach, will be explored.

Learning Outcomes

• Full understanding of the relationship between theory and practice in language acquisition and language learning
• Understanding of current approaches to language teaching as they relate to different approaches to language analysis
• Knowledge of the differences between different approaches to language analysis
• Understanding of the theoretical foundation underlying the debate between applied linguistics and linguistics applied

• To be able to critically assess the historical relationship between theory and practice
• To assess the merits of the most influential linguistic theories that that currently exist, including both generative linguistics and more functional cognitive approaches
• Mastery of skills in critical teaching, drawing on current theory where possible

• Ability to read and understand primary texts
• Ability to connect theoretical issues to an applied context

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• The lectures will introduce students to a range of linguistic theories and the issue in language teaching/learning that arise from them such that students will have a good command of relevant theoretical background and be able to apply this knowledge to actual or envisaged teaching practice. The seminars will provide a forum for discussion, structured around weekly readings. The tutorials will provide support for the course assessment so that the student adequately demonstrates an ability to research and organise complex material.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment

Discussion questions based on Seminar Readings Draft of the Final Essay.