LSMDSP-Spoken Language

Module Provider: English Language and Applied Linguistics
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: erhan.aslan@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Aims:
To outline current views on the nature of the listening and speaking processes and skills, especially in an L2 context; to describe features of interactional and transactional spoken language; to outline the ways in which listening skills can be developed; to examine certain important aspects of the teaching of speaking in the L2 context; to outline certain important issues related to the assessment of L2 speaking.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of this module, students should be able to:

• describe key features of the psycholinguistic processes of L2 listening and speaking;
• summarise current views of the types of skills needed to comprehend spoken English, and link listening skill development techniques to major lesson phases;
• identify factors influencing the choice of a model of spoken English for L2 teaching;
• show awareness of the benefits and limitations of focused oral practice, especially drills;
• list defining features of pedagogical tasks used in L2 teaching and the features (including teacher interventions) which influence learner output;
• define and exemplify the main types of L2 communication strategies;
• identify specific features of speech for assessment purposes within a framework of models of speaking proficiency;
• list types of speaking test and factors for consideration in rating scale production;
• critically analyse spoken language teaching materials or assessment instruments in relation to the nature of the listening and speaking processes and of spoken language.

Additional outcomes:

• Students should develop an awareness of the way in which the teaching of L2 speaking and its role in the curriculum have changed over the last fifty years.

Outline content:
The topics to be covered during the module are as follows:
The listening and speaking processes: psycholinguistic views; the nature of interactional and transactional spoken language; teaching listening skills: methods and materials : stages and emphases in the listening process; teaching speaking - models and an historical overview; input and practice in teaching speaking; extended speaking, communication strategies and task-based learning; the roles of the teacher, learner and materials in L2 speaking; assessing speaking: what, why and how can we assess?

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Students work through specifically written distance study module materials, doing tasks and reading commentaries on those tasks. They also receive core readings in the form of selected articles and a cassette. The module tutor can be contacted by e-mail, letter or phone. Students interact with each other and the module tutor through the online discussion board.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:
One essay of 3000-4000 words on a general topic requiring either an analysis of samples of spoken language with discussions of the implications for pedagogy / assessment, or a critical evaluation of listening and / or speaking teaching/assessment materials in the light of theory and research.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of at least 50% in the essay.

Reassessment arrangements:
Assignment essay to be submitted for the next appropriate distance study submission deadline.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 10 April 2019