*For those who have no background in language at undergraduate level

PCR511 Teaching Literature: Aims and Approaches

The aims of literature teaching, specific objectives in the classroom, the literature teaching situation in respect of the local context, prescribed texts and syllabuses, and general methodology. Considerations of official directives including National Education and IT initiatives in literature teaching. Techniques for teaching the short story, novel, drama and poetry for literary development and creative and critical thinking. Micro-teaching to help improve student skills before teaching practice.

PCR512 Writing about Literature and Literature Assessment

Developing and linking writing tasks for literature appreciation and criticism. Examining the connection between teaching and assessment goals by looking at the principles and practice of literature assessment at the secondary and junior college levels. Applying these principles to the setting and critiquing of literature tests.

PCR513 Approaches to Literature

Introduction to the literary analysis of texts in the three major literary genres: fiction, poetry, and drama. A variety of critical and interpretative approaches will be introduced and tested. Specifically, these will include: the skills associated with ‘close reading’; the use of biographical, historical, and cultural material in the interpretation of texts, and the relation between form and meaning in all three genres.  The selection of material takes account of those texts which are being read, and can be taught, in the local school system.