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Last modified: 30 Apr 2026 12:46
This course explores the central role of language and literacy in learning and the teacher’s role in overcoming barriers to literacy. Students will examine research-informed approaches to teaching reading and writing, including the five pillars of effective reading instruction: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension (Hattie, 2007). They will consider the connection between reading and writing, and develop their understanding of pedagogical approaches to literacy across the primary years. The course also addresses strategies to close the attainment gap and improve outcomes for all learners.
| Study Type | Undergraduate | Level | 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | First Term | Credit Points | 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits) |
| Campus | Aberdeen | Sustained Study | No |
| Co-ordinators |
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Students will study language acquisition and examine the relationship between language and literacy, with a focus on the learning and teaching of reading and writing. They will consider the factors that create barriers to literacy and explore strategies to address them. The course will introduce students to the five pillars of an effective reading programme: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension (Hattie, 2007).
In addition, students will study approaches to planning and teaching writing, including the connection between reading and writing skills, and the progression of writing instruction from the early years through to the upper stages. Throughout the course, students will develop their knowledge and understanding of the crucial role language and literacy play in all areas of learning, as well as the impact barriers to literacy can have on educational attainment and life outcomes. This will include an exploration of the reasons behind the attainment gap and ways in which it can be addressed.
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
| Assessment Type | Summative | Weighting | 100 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment Weeks | 20 | Feedback Weeks | 27 | |
| Feedback |
Feedback will be given online via Turnitin on MyAberdeen |
Word Count | 3000 | |
| Knowledge Level | Thinking Skill | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Conceptual | Understand | Develop appreciation of how theory and research can inform practice |
| Conceptual | Understand | Develop critical understanding of a range of theories relevant to language acquisition |
| Conceptual | Understand | Develop awareness of historic and current research in teaching reading and writing. |
| Conceptual | Understand | Develop critical knowledge and understanding of factors that affect literacy learning and development |
There are no assessments for this course.
| Assessment Type | Summative | Weighting | 100 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment Weeks | 50 | Feedback Weeks | 51 | |
| Feedback | Feedback on MyAberdeen | |||
| Knowledge Level | Thinking Skill | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
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| Knowledge Level | Thinking Skill | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Conceptual | Understand | Develop critical knowledge and understanding of factors that affect literacy learning and development |
| Conceptual | Understand | Develop awareness of historic and current research in teaching reading and writing. |
| Conceptual | Understand | Develop critical understanding of a range of theories relevant to language acquisition |
| Conceptual | Understand | Develop appreciation of how theory and research can inform practice |
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