Language and Literacy in Early Childhood (学前儿童语言教育)

Singapore University of Social Sciences

Language and Literacy in Early Childhood (学前儿童语言教育) (ECC215)

Synopsis

ECC215 Language and Literacy in Early Childhood Education focuses on the nature of human language, the physiological and psychological basis of development, and theories of children's language acquisition. Students will deepen their knowledge on the conditions and processes of children's language development. They will also examine the factors that influence children’s language and literacy. Through the discussions of appropriate content and curriculum in language and literacy for children, as well as pedagogical approaches, this course will help to enhance students’ abilities in developing educational activities that support children’s’ development. The course will also provide insights into the local learning environment, teaching materials, and language teaching methods. It will also examine issues on children's Chinese language ability development. Students will analyse how teachers can work with parents to promote the development of children's Chinese language ability.

Level: 2
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: EVERY JAN

Topics

The nature of language and the physiological and psychological basis of language development
Children's language acquisition and education theories
Language development stages of infants, toddlers and preschool children
Integrating approaches in the development and teaching of phonetics, vocabulary and syntax
Goals, principles and content of appropriate language curriculum for children
Pedagogical approaches of children’s language education
Conversational and narrative activities, and games for children
Nursery rhymes and activities with stories
Pre-reading activities for children
Pre- writing activities for children
Parental and family involvement in children’s language and literacy development
Evaluation of children’s language development and curriculum.

Learning Outcome

说明儿童语言发展的生理与心理基础和语言习得理论。 (Interpret theories of children's language development and acquisition.)
描述不同年龄阶段儿童的语言发展特点和语言习得途径。 (Describe the characteristics of children’s language development.)
探讨儿童语言课程的教育目标、原则与方法。 (Discuss the educational goals, principles and approaches of language curricula.)
叙述新加坡学龄前儿童华语发展的状况与影响因素。 (Relate factors that influence Singapore children’s Chinese language development.)
应用策略设计儿童发展适宜性的语言教育活动。 (Apply strategies to develop appropriate language educational activities for children.)
分析与评价儿童语言教育活动的适宜性并提出改善建议。 (Appraise curriculum and propose suggestions for improvement.)