MGBEN101 English 1, module 1

Contents and structure

This is module 1 in the course English 1 for grades 1-7 in the primary school teacher education. English 1 consists of two modules, each worth 15 credits: English language, literature, and culture with subject didactics, module 1 and module 2.

The subject descriptions for English 1 are based on the National Guidelines for Primary School Teacher Education 1-7 (2016) and are part of a five-year primary school teacher education with a master's degree. The module is open to incoming students.

English 1 for grades 1-7 provides an introduction to the English language, literature, culture, and subject didactics with a special emphasis on beginner education. On the language side, this includes knowledge of how the language is structured, and the subject has a comparative focus that emphasizes linguistic differences between English and Norwegian, possibly other languages as well. On the literature and culture side, this includes knowledge of children's literature and the use of various texts in primary school, as well as the analysis of fiction and non-fiction texts. The development of one's own language skills and text competence is also central.

The module covers English teaching for the entire primary school. This includes basic skills and knowledge of the curriculum, as well as what characterizes students in this age group and their language development in English. In addition, the module provides insight into various learning activities and methods for English teaching in primary school.

Learning Outcome

Upon completion of the course, the student should have the following overall learning outcomes:

Knowledge

• The student has basic knowledge of the sound system in English, vocabulary, and the grammatical structure of the language, including differences and similarities between English and other languages.
• Has knowledge of how children learn language, with a focus on beginner education.
• Possesses knowledge of multilingualism as a resource in the classroom.
• Knows the curriculum, national tests, and teaching materials for the English subject.
• Has fundamental knowledge of vocabulary acquisition and structures in English from sound to text level.
• Familiar with songs, rhymes, literature, and other cultural expressions that can be used in teaching children.
• Knowledgeable about the fundamental skills in the English subject.

Skills

• Can analyze literature, select, and facilitate work with English-language literature for children.
• Can identify and explain basic elements of the language's grammatical structure and sound system.
• Can use English both orally and in writing, confidently and independently.
• Can plan and lead varied and differentiated learning activities, including digital ones, promoting deep learning and the development of fundamental skills.
• Can facilitate tailored instruction.
• Can use formative assessment to guide students in English learning.
• Can orally and in writing discuss a selection of fiction and non-fiction literature.
• Can gather and present information on societal issues and cultural themes for use in teaching.

General Competence

• Can convey relevant subject matter and communicate in English in a way that is adapted to students in grades 1-7.
• Can reflect on personal learning and teaching practices in light of ethical principles and the school's responsibility for the personal growth of children and youth.
• Can work independently and collaboratively with others to facilitate students' learning and development.
• Can maintain and develop their own language and didactic competence.
• Can write academically at a beginner level.

Entry requirements

None

Teaching methods

The course covers a variety of strategies for language learning and working with a foreign language.

Methods include overview lectures combined with discussions of the material, group work (both in pairs and larger groups), individual work, project work, and presentations. Students will gain experience with methods applicable in primary school settings. It is expected that students actively participate in discussions during colloquium meetings and on digital learning platforms as an extension of the learning situation, in addition to what takes place in the classroom.

All teaching in the subject is conducted in English, and the language practice aspect is central to students' work. Learning in the English study program requires collaboration with other students and instructors on key challenges in the subject, the development of oral and written skills, and students' didactic competence. This aspect of a teacher's competence cannot be acquired solely through reading but must be developed in real dialogue and through presence in teaching. Therefore, it is expected that students attend all classes, actively participate, and contribute to taking responsibility for learning activities, thereby helping to develop a strong academic environment. What is conveyed in the teaching may supplement the syllabus, and it will be considered part of the exam material. Not all parts of the syllabus will be covered, so the study requires a considerable amount of independent work.

Practice is an integral part of the study.

Compulsory learning activities

• Students must submit and receive guidance on drafts of the semester assignment.
• A mandatory learning activity in a language subject.

The semester plan will provide more detailed guidelines for the mandatory learning activities, and information about guidance and academic requirements will also be provided. Students are obligated to familiarize themselves with and adhere to the submission deadlines. A mandatory learning activity should be related to academic writing.

Mandatory learning activities must be approved before registering for the exam. Students who do not pass the mandatory learning activities may have one reattempt during the academic year, but a maximum of two attempts per mandatory learning activity per semester.

Attendance of at least 70% of the classes is required. When the absence exceeds 30%, the student will not have the subject approved, regardless of the reason.

Assessment

• Part 1: Individual written exam, 3 hours. Counts for 40% of the final grade.
• Part 2: Individual written assignment, 1500 words. Counts for 60% of the final grade.

Grading scale A-F, where F corresponds to a failing grade.

Both parts must be passed to receive a grade in the subject. In case of failure in one of the parts, the failed part can be retaken as a new exam.

It is possible to submit an improved version (Part 2) in the following semester. It is only possible to submit an improved version with the same topic once. After this, an entirely new assignment must be written.

Examination support material

Written exam: No aids allowed.

Written assignment: All aids are allowed.

More about examination support material