Course Code: ELG354

Synopsis

Students will approach the study of language from the sociolinguistic context of literacy. The course explores the past, present and future of literacy practices, the different models of literacy, as well as the politics of literacy. Students will be introduced to the theoretical approaches to analyzing the nature and use of oral, visual and written texts in the learning of language.
Level: 3
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: Every January

Topics

  • Introduction to literacy.
  • Social Basis of Literacy
  • Public Definition of Literacy
  • Introduction to literacy: Research Methods
  • Researching Literacy Practices
  • Reviewing Task Requirements of TMA 1
  • Learning to read and write: Pre-school literacy
  • Emergent Literacy
  • Learning to Read and Write
  • Learning to read and write: In-school literacy
  • School practices
  • Reviewing Task Requirements of TMA 2
  • Learning to read and write: Adults & out-of-school literacy
  • Adult literacy
  • Language Issues in Adult Literacy
  • Feedback on TMA 1
  • Literacy embedded in language
  • Register, Genre & Discourse
  • Exam Preparation

Learning Outcome

  • Illustrate the various definitions of literacy
  • Compare different literacy events
  • Interpret literacy practices in everyday lives
  • Design a literacy research project
  • Collect data for a literacy research project
  • Appraise literacy events and practices in everyday lives