LSMLIT-Literacy

Module Provider: English Language and Applied Linguistics
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn 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: 2020/1

Email: tony.capstick@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module aims to explore the nature of literacy across of range of social and educational settings. We will consider writing as one of humanity’s greatest achievements and take a historical perspective on the role of reading and writing in our lives. There is a focus on different writing systems from across the globe - from the development of writing systems in the Middle East to the use of language online in contemporary settings, the module investigates the changing uses and purposes of literacy. By the end of the module, students will have developed an understanding of how social and critical literacies can be drawn on in educational settings in settings in the Global North as well as the Global South (South Africa).

Aims:

This module aims to explore the nature of literacy practices, drawing on a range of social and educational contexts. We will consider both school-based and home-based written language and will review methodological approaches to research in reading and writing. The main aim is that students are able to take an ethnographic approach to understanding literacy by analysing community literacy practices.

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 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 reading and writing throughout history; social practices approaches to literacy in school and home settings; language and literacy online; multilingual literacies; critical literacy. 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.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

One 2-hour examination, with two questions.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

• Students will write one essay of 2,500 – 3,000 words. (45%)

Formative assessment methods:

• Feedback on group preparation for oral presentation;


• Feedback on assignment outline.

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 50% overall

Reassessment arrangements:

Resubmission of coursework by 12 noon on the third Friday in August in the year the course is taken.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 4 April 2020