Course overview
This course will deepen students' understanding of issues in learning an additional language (other than English) and the implications for teaching languages in diverse classroom contexts. Students develop knowledge of issues in learning an additional language other than English, the relationship between language, culture and learning, and an intercultural orientation to language teaching and learning. Students investigate, theories of second language acquisition, and factors that affect the learning of an additional language, including the role of learners' first language in learning additional languages. Students also evaluate the relationship between learner background and language learning, the role of interaction and moving between languages and cultures, and the role of the teacher in facilitating effective language learning and use.
Course learning outcomes
- Discuss concepts of monolingualism and bilingualism and the implications for teaching and learning an additional language
- Demonstrate understanding of the interrelationship between language, culture and learning in learning an additional language in school based contexts
- Critically evaluate how factors, including learner language and cultural background and life-worlds affect their experience of additional language learning at school
- Analyse intercultural principles for learning languages and cultures, and consider the implications for effective teaching and learning in school contexts
- Reflect on examples of resources for language and culture learning and teaching practices in diverse contexts