MGUEN102 English 1, module 1 - English language with didactics

Contents and structure

This is module 1 of English 1 for teacher education, years 5 to 10 (GLU 5-10). For subject 2 (fag 2), English 1 consists of two courses with 15 credit points each: English language with didactics (this course: MGUEN102) and English literature and culture with didactics (MGUEN202).

This course description is based on the national guidelines for teacher education 5-10 (2016). The course is part of a 5-year teacher education program completed with a Master’s degree. The course is open to international exchange students.

The course gives an introduction to the English language based on insights from linguistics and language didactics. This includes knowledge about how the language is structured and used. The course has a comparative focus that highlights differences between English and other languages. The development of language skills and text competences is also central.

The linguistic component of the course introduces students to English phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics and pragmatics.

The language didactic component of the course includes a focus on basic language skills, multilingualism, knowledge of the English curriculum, and other didactic aspects relevant for learners in years 5 to 10. In addition, the course gives insight into methods for teaching English in lower secondary school. 

Learning Outcome

Knowledge

The student 

• knows how to describe English in terms of its sound system, vocabulary and grammar, including differences and similarities between English and other languages
• knows how children and adolescents learn languages 
• knows the content of the English curriculum and teaching materials for the subject English   
• knows how to handle multilingualism as a resource in the classroom
• has knowledge about the basic skills in the subject English 

 

Skills 

The student 

• can plan and teach English lessons
• can speak and write English in a way that adapts to the target group of learners
• can identify and describe central aspects of the English sound system, English grammar and English language use
• can identify and explain basic linguistic differences and similarities between English and other languages 
• can prepare varied and meaningful classes that foster the development of English speaking, listening, reading and writing skills 
• can assess learners’ linguistic performance, provide formative and summative assessment and give reasons for assessments
• can apply their expert knowledge about English in their teaching within the framework of the curriculum and critically reflect on their own teaching

 

General competences 

The student 

• has good English language skills 
• can convey relevant knowledge about English and communicate in English in a way that is adapted to the target group
• can reflect on their role as English teacher with respect to ethical values and the school’s responsibility for the English-related and personal development of children and adolescents  
• can work independently and together with others, to foster the pupils’ learning and development
• can write academic texts at beginner level 

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Entry requirements

None

Teaching methods

The course incorporates various ways of language learning and working with a foreign language, for example through the use of digital tools. It introduces students to academic writing. 

Teaching methods include lectures on basic course content, discussion of the subject matter in class, exercises, group work, individual work, project work and presentations. The students will gain experience with teaching techniques that can be used in years 5 to 10. It is expected that the students participate in discussions during colloquium meetings and on the digital learning platform, in addition to the in-class activities.

All teaching in the subject English is conducted in English, and using the language is central in the students’ work. Studying English presupposes communication with other students and instructors about central challenges in the subject, the development of oral and written skills, and didactic competences. This part of a teacher’s competence cannot be acquired through reading alone but has to be developed in face-to-face interaction and by being present during classes.  It is expected that the students attend all classes, participate actively and take over responsibility for learning activities, so that they contribute to a good study atmosphere. What is taught in class is additional subject matter to the reading list and is part of the knowledge relevant for the exams. Not all relevant subject matter can be covered in class, which necessitates a high degree of independent study work.

Teaching practice is an integral part of the course.

Compulsory learning activities

• The students submit a draft of their written language didactic assignment and receive feedback on their draft.  
• One assignment connected to basic digital skills

The course plan provides more guidelines for the course requirements. The students are obliged to keep themselves informed and meet submission deadlines.

The obligatory requirements specified above need to be passed before a student can register for the exam. Students who fail to pass the obligatory requirements can get only one new attempt during the semester.

Requirements that have been passed are valid for three semesters after passing.

Assessment

Two-part exam, consisting of a written exam on English linguistics and a written assignment on a language didactic topic. The written exam counts 40% and the written assignment counts 60%. Both parts need to be passed to get a grade in the course. If one of the two parts has not been passed, only this part needs to be repeated.

Grade scale A to F, with F meaning fail.

 

Written exam in English linguistics, 3 hours

Time and place of the written exam will be published on Studentweb.

Written assignment on a language didactic topic 

More specific guidelines for the assignment will be published at the beginning of the term. The deadline for the assignment will be published on Studentweb.

Examination support material

Written exam: none 

Written assignment: no restrictions  

More about examination support material