LSMIB-Issues in Bilingualism

Module Provider: English Language and Applied Linguistics
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: Core compulsory modules
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2020/1

Email: f.aveledogonzalez@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
This module will introduce the students to the study of Bilingualism, examining current theories and research methodologies in the area of language development, sociolinguistics, education and language policy.

Aims:
The course aims to introduce the students to key concepts in terminology, major research questions and research methods in the analysis of individual and soceital bilingualism. The course will also address the practical implications of this research for education and language policy and will enable students to develop conceptual and practical tools necessary to analyse and discuss seminal work in the field.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of this module it is expected that the students will be able to:

• Define the key concepts in bilingualism research;
• Demonstrate an understanding of the main theories and issues concerning bilingal language development, bilingual education and bilingualism in society at Level 5;
• Demonstrate the ability to analyse and interpret data at Level 5;
• Gain insights into different aspects in the study of bilingualism.

Additional outcomes:
The module aims to develop the students' oral communication skills and to foster the ability to discuss and analyse concrete data or problematic issues in small groups. Students will become familiar with some of the methods employed in bilingualism research.

Outline content:
The module focuses on the following topics: Defining and measuring bilingualism, characteristics of bilingualism, theories and methodological issues, child bilingualism, bilingualism and education, language planning, adult bilingualism.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Lectures, discussions and group work in class.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

One critical review of a journal of 3,000-4,000 words on a topic related to one of the key themes described in the outline content above.

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 grade of at least 50% in the essay.

Reassessment arrangements:
Re-submission of assignment essay by 1st September.

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: 4 April 2020