Advanced Pedagogy: Teaching Second-Language Reading

Reading is widely assumed to be a crucial part of language acquisition and literacy is touted as an important instructional goal. Yet many teachers find it difficult to implement effective reading instruction, rarely going beyond the traditional “read-and-discuss” model. What really happens when we read and how can this knowledge be applied to second-language learning? How can teachers increase motivation to read in students who prefer visual imagery over text? What can second-language teachers realistically contribute to students’ overall literacy? We will attempt to answer these questions through a survey of the current research on reading and hands-on development of materials that teachers can use to incorporate reading on a regular basis in their classes. (1 unit)

Required text: Electronic materials provided at Middlebury. Students should bring their own teaching materials (web or press articles, literature, realia, textbook readings, etc.) for use in class projects.