University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: Only available to students on a PGT TESOL programme

Planned timetable: Lectures: 11-1pm, Mondays and Tuesdays, Weeks 1-5. Practical: To be confirmed, Weeks 1-5

This module explores theories of child development and learning which are fundamental to the understanding of child second language acquisition. This is divided into three distinct groups, namely children aged 4-7, 8-11 and 12-18. This informs the language teacher of what the child can achieve in their first language, which has considerable bearing on what is appropriate in second language acquisition and teaching. The module divides the teaching of language into oral and written skills, productive and receptive skills, grammar and vocabulary acquisition, various teaching approaches and the use of stories in language teaching. Child psychology has to be taken into account in development of teaching materials, teaching styles and classroom management, and comparisons will often be made between different age groups. Assessment is in the form of a portfolio which can be collected throughout the course, and allows for students to focus on their preferred aspects of teaching young learners.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 4 hours lectures (x 5 weeks), 1 hour seminar (x 5 weeks)

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%


Re-assessment: Coursework = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Mrs K Tavakoli
Module teaching staff: Mrs Kerry Tavakoli, Lynn Wilson
Module coordinator email kt9@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• explore the relationship between a child’s cognitive development and SLA theory
• develop a learning-centred approach to teaching young learners
• plan lessons, design materials and deliver appropriate lessons to young learners, in three age groups