Course Description
This course will introduce the basic concepts and issues related to learning and teaching a second language, particularly as it pertains to secondary and tertiary education. We will examine issues related to second language acquisition and teaching from various theoretical perspectives specifically focusing on both written language skills of reading and writing and the spoken language skills of listening and speaking; on both child and adult acquisition, and on both naturalistic and classroom learning contexts. The information provided in this course will help you make better decisions based on knowledge gained from current research regarding the second language learners in your classrooms.
Syllabus
Sample Coursework
ENGL 470 Synthesis of Terms and Concepts
- For the English 470 midterm, I was to distinguish the differences between BICS (Basic Interpersonal Communicative Skills) and CALP (Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency). Using examples from the class reading, I elaborated on factors to consider when learning a language. I then proceeded to explain the steps I would take in a mixed classroom with ESL and native speakers. Making the distinction on a graph between cognitively demanding and undemanding and context embedded and reduced, I separated the steps in my lesson to fit those distinctions. This midterm also asked that I explain the different feedback types, such as metalinguistic, recast, explicit corrections, repetition, clarification request, and elicitation.
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Amanda Abrahams 