LS2LDP-Literacy, Discourse and Power

Module Provider: English Language and Applied Linguistics
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites: LS1SG Sounds, Grammar and Meaning and LS1ELS English Language and Society
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Module Convenor: Dr Tony Capstick

Email: tony.capstick@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module aims to explore the nature of literacy practices, drawing on a range of social and educational contexts. We will consider both the theoretical bases of production and comprehension of written language and will review methodological approaches to research in reading and writing.

Aims:

This module aims to explore the nature of literacy practices, drawing on a range of social and educational contexts. We will consider both the theoretical bases of production and comprehension of written language and will review methodological approaches to research in reading and writing.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of this module it is expected that the student will be able to:

• Collect and analyse data on literacy practices;


• Summarize major theories of literacy practices from social perspectives;


• Discuss literacy practices in different contexts (education and multilingual):


• Describe writing systems.

Additional outcomes:

The module aims to encourage the development of students’ critical thinking skills, in relation to evaluating ideas, research and teaching approaches. Students will be encouraged to use IT resources for asynchronous discussion of key topics. Oral presentation skills will be promoted.

Outline content:

The module will look at developing literacy skills from educational and social perspectives. We will also look at meanings of literacy in different traditions, literacy acquisition, and new literacies. We will consider a variety of research methods. We will discuss writing systems and the social bases of literacy, including multilingual literacy practices.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Integrated lectures with workshops and oral presentations.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures		20
Guided independent study:		180
Total hours by term		200
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	40
Written assignment including essay	40
Oral assessment and presentation	10
Set exercise	10

Summative assessment- Examinations:

One 2-hour examination, with two questions.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

• Students will write one essay of 2,000 – 2,500 words. (40%)

Formative assessment methods:

• Feedback on group preparation for oral presentation;


• Feedback on assignment outline.

Penalties for late submission:
The Module Convener will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day[1] (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;

where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:

Resubmission of coursework by12 noon on the third Friday in August in the year the course is taken.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 8 April 2019