LANG41815: Teaching Young Learners

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• at the end of this module, students will:
• understand the various types of younger learners between the ages of 4 and 16 and some of their characteristics that will help consider how best to teach them
• be familiar with key theories of first and second language acquisition and educational theories relevant to teaching young learners
• be familiar with a range of teaching methods and classroom management approaches appropriate for teaching young learners
• have considered different materials, creative games and technology for teaching young learners both skills and language

• this module focuses on key issues facing teachers in any context involving the teaching of English (as a foreign, not second, language) to young learners.
• broadly speaking, these issues relate to lesson-planning, materials selection, methodology and the wider social and technological environment of teaching young learners.

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• key characteristics of the student population (young people aged 4-16) and typical teaching contexts
• an understanding of theories relevant to teaching young learners
• an understanding of the principles of classroom management

Subject-specific Skills:

• ability to critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of various teaching methodologies suitable for teaching young learners
• ability to critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of various teaching materials suitable for teaching different ages of young learners
• ability to consider lessons with the specific needs and potential of young learners in mind

Key Skills:

• ability to read and understand primary texts about relevant theories and language pedagogy
• an understanding of appropriate and effective classes taking account of significant issues affecting young learners for example materials, creativity, play and technology
• ability to evaluate materials and authentic resources available for the teaching of young learners in the light of theories of language acquisition

• lectures will introduce the principles of teaching young learners and give students an opportunity to explore and discuss key issues, opportunities and teaching skills (primarily relating to materials and methods)
• seminars will give students the chance to apply theoretical knowledge to practical teaching aspects, evaluating materials, considering classroom management or lesson planning for example

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