English Language Structure for English as a Second Language Teachers

Catalog description

An in-depth study and review of general linguistic concepts and their application to ESL pedagogy. EDUC 467 English Language Structure for ESL Teachers (3) EDUC 467 is the second course in a four-course, 12-credit sequence designed to meet the Pennsylvania Department of Education's (PDE) requirements for an ESL Program Specialist Certificate. The 12-credit sequence which has previously been approved by PDE has been offered as 'Special Topics' courses. The 12-credit sequence is consistent with other approved ESL certificate programs. EDUC 467 introduces students to general linguistic concepts and their application to ESL pedagogy and practice. The course provides an intensive study and review of major linguistic concepts and issues, including but not limited to: phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics and discourse analysis, sociolinguistics and dialectology, historical linguistics and world languages, and writing systems. The course specifically addresses two of the PDE competencies necessary for a teacher to acquire to meet the minimum requirements as an ESL Program Specialist: PDE Competency I-English usage and developing linguistic awareness; and PDE Competency III-English language learners [ELLS] language and language services knowledge. The three areas of emphasis within EDUC 467 are:a)Language and communication , which explores the use of dictionaries, English use and usage, social conventions and English usage, American English variations, meaning and significance. b)Grammar, pronunciation, literacy development for second language learners,which focuses on the significance of these areas for ESL learners; and c)Evaluative classroom instruments to measure student progress in grammar, pronunciation and English language structure,which highlights the incorporation of linguistic tools in the assessment of ESL learners' language skills and needs.