SEL8701 : Foundations in Second Language Learning and Teaching
- Offered for Year: 2025/26
- Module Leader(s): Dr Sujeewa Hettiarachchi
- Owning School: English Lit, Language & Linguistics
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 20 |
| ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Aims
This module aims to introduce students to the fundamental theories, research methods, and practices involved in learning and teaching second languages. It explores the relationship between key concepts in second language acquisition (SLA) and the dominant approaches and methods in English language teaching, situating them within their theoretical, historical, and empirical contexts. Students will gain the knowledge and skills to critically evaluate SLA theories, analyse research findings, and apply teaching methodologies, preparing them for advanced academic inquiry and professional roles in language education.
Outline Of Syllabus
a) Theoretical perspectives on SLA
b) Empirical research in SLA
c) Individual differences in second language learning
d) Acquisition of linguistic domains
e) Dominant approaches and methods in language teaching
f) Practical applications of SLA theories to teaching
g) Research methods in SLA
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 22 | 1:00 | 22:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 47 | 1:00 | 47:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Directed research and reading | 60 | 1:00 | 60:00 | N/A |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 11 | 1:00 | 11:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 60 | 1:00 | 60:00 | N/A |
| Total | 200:00 |
Jointly Taught With
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| SEL2237 | Introduction to Second Language Learning and Teaching |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
N/A
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 50 | 2000-word data analysis & interpretation exercise |
| Essay | 1 | A | 50 | 2000-word essay |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The PROBLEM-SOLVING EXERCISE tests students’ skills in data analysis and interpretation that they will have acquired and practised during seminars.
The ESSAY tests students’ critical and writing skills. Students use the acquired critical skills to explore a topic in Second Language Acquisition and write up their argumentation as a critical essay.
Reading Lists
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- SEL8701's Timetable