Singapore University of Social Sciences

ECE364 provides an opportunity to review and plan, using a wider range of books that have been published for children (birth through 8). Building on earlier knowledge of picture books, the course introduces the history of picture books as a unique genre, vis-à-vis other kinds of children’s literature. Students will examine the themes presented in the past 50 years and analyse the patterns found among titles by Caldecott Honour and Caldecott Medal recipients. Bilingual picture books are also introduced and discussed in relation to existing and alternative EC classroom practices. The course also provides each student with the opportunity to assess the affordances of at least 50 titles – whether they are suited to certain developmental abilities, sociocultural appropriateness, thematic topics, and/or strategies such as storytelling, use of puppets, story drama and other play-based activities. Strategies to enhance family literacy practices and bonding are also discussed.