Students

EDUC2600 – Language, Literacy and Learning

2020 – Session 1, Weekday attendance, North Ryde

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, any references to assessment tasks and on-campus delivery may no longer be up-to-date on this page.

Students should consult iLearn for revised unit information.

Find out more about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and potential impacts on staff and students

General Information

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Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor
Dr Kerry-Ann O'Sullivan
29WW356
Credit points Credit points
10
Prerequisites Prerequisites
40cp at 1000 level or above including (EDUC1050 or EDUC105 or EDUC1060 or EDUC106) or (admission to BEd(ECE)(0-12) and (EDUC1060 or EDUC106 or ECH126))
Corequisites Corequisites
Co-badged status Co-badged status
EDUC2600 Infrequent attendance
Unit description Unit description
Literacy is one of the foundations of learning; it manifests itself in evolving forms and comprises a complex repertoire of knowledge and skills. Our changing communicative modes within a rapidly altering world require an expansion of the uses, purposes and practices of language and literacy. These encompass the key skills of reading, writing, viewing, representing, speaking and listening framed by a multimodal perspective of language. This unit examines these six language modes and it is organised around a research-based study of words, sounds, images, and texts, which include written, visual, oral/aural, digital and multimodal texts. Contemporary Australian curriculum, educational policies, and quality literacy practices will be introduced. The pedagogical emphasis is on a continuous cycle of explicit, systematic, balanced and integrated teaching for all students.

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • ULO2: Recognise the features of the six language modes (reading, writing, speaking, listening, viewing and representing) and apply this knowledge to enhance their own and their students' learning.
  • ULO1: Demonstrate a working knowledge and understanding of the key principles and concepts used in contemporary language and literacy learning.
  • ULO3: Demonstrate a working knowledge of grammar, and of the forms and features of a range of texts.
  • ULO4: Discuss in an informed manner the significant issues in literacy education through drawing upon their examination of current research, policies, curriculum and practices in the field.
  • ULO5: Develop some strategies to enhance their own pedagogical practices so as to work towards achieving improved literacy and language outcomes in education for all students.
  • ULO6: Demonstrate personal competency, knowledge and confidence in their uses of language and literacy in a variety of forms including ICT and digital.

Assessment Tasks

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

Assessment details are no longer provided here as a result of changes due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Students should consult iLearn for revised unit information.

Find out more about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and potential impacts on staff and students

General Assessment Information

Assessment Presentation and Submission Guidelines

Please follow these guidelines when you submit each assignment:

  • Allow a left and right-hand margin of at least 2cm in all assignments.
  • Please type all assignments using 12-point font and 1.5 spacing.
  • All assessments must be submitted through Turnitin in .doc or .pdf format
  • It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all assessments are successfully submitted through Turnitin.
  • Faculty assignment cover sheets are NOT required.

Draft Submissions & Turnitin Originality Reports

  • Students may use Turnitin’s Originality Report as a learning tool to improve their academic writing if this option is made available in the unit.
  • Students are strongly encouraged to upload a draft copy of each assessment to Turnitin at least one week prior to the due date to obtain an Originality Report.
  • The Originality Report provides students with a similarity index that may indicate if plagiarism has occurred. Students will be able to make amendments to their drafts prior to their final submission on the due date.
  • Generally, one Originality Report is generated every 24 hours up to the due date.

Please note:

  • Students should regularly save a copy of all assignments before submission,
  • Students are responsible for checking that their submission has been successful and has been submitted by the due date and time.

Assignment extensions and late penalties

  • In general, there should be no need for extensions except through illness or misadventure that would be categorised as serious and unavoidable disruption according to the University definition of same, see:  https://students.mq.edu.au/study/my-study-program/special-consideration
  • Applications for extensions must be made via AskMQ according to the Special Consideration policy. Extensions can only be granted if they meet the Special Considerations policy and are submitted via https://ask.mq.edu.au/. This will ensure consistency in the consideration of such requests is maintained.
  • Late submissions without extension will receive a penalty of 5% reduction of the total possible mark for each day late (including weekends and public holidays). You are reminded that submitting even 1 day late could be the difference between passing and failing a unit. Late penalties are applied by unit convenors or their delegates after tasks are assessed.
  • No assessable work will be accepted after the return/release of marked work on the same topic. If a student is still permitted to submit on the basis of unavoidable disruption, an alternative topic may be set.
  • Students should keep an electronic file of all assessments. Claims regarding "lost" assessments cannot be made if the file cannot be produced. It is also advisable to keep an electronic file of all drafts and the final submission on a USB untouched/unopened after submission. This can be used to demonstrate easily that the assessment has not been amended after the submission date.

Requesting a re-assessment of an assignment

If you have evidence that your task has been incorrectly assessed against the grade descriptors you can request a re-mark. To request a re-mark you need to contact the unit convenor within 7 days of the date of return of the assignment and provide a detailed assessment of your script against the task criteria. Evidence from your assignment must be provided to support your judgements.

Note: Failed assessments cannot be re-marked as they are all double-marked as a part of the moderation process.

Please note: The outcome of a re-mark may be a higher/lower or unchanged grade. Grades are standards referenced and effort is NOT a criterion.

University policy on grading

Criteria for awarding grades for assessment tasks

Assignments will be awarded grades ranging from HD to F according to guidelines set out in the University's Grading Policy. The following descriptive criteria are included for your information.

Descriptive Criteria for awarding grades in the unit

In order to meet the unit outcomes and successfully pass this unit, students must make a genuine attempt at all assessment tasks.  Where this requirement is not met you will be awarded an FA grade with a maximum mark of 45.

Students will be awarded grades ranging from HD to F according to guidelines set out in the assessment policy: https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policies/assessment-in-effect-from-session-2-2016

In order to ensure clear distinctions between grades, final marks of 49, 64, 74 and 84 will not be used. The following generic grade descriptors provide university-wide standards for awarding final grades.

Grade

Descriptor

HD

(High Distinction)

Provides consistent evidence of deep and critical understanding in relation to the learning outcomes. There is substantial originality and insight in identifying, generating and communicating competing arguments, perspectives or problem solving approaches; critical evaluation of problems, their solutions and their implications; creativity in application as appropriate to the discipline.

D

(Distinction)

Provides evidence of integration and evaluation of critical ideas, principles and theories, distinctive insight and ability in applying relevant skills and concepts in relation to learning outcomes. There is demonstration of frequent originality in defining and analysing issues or problems and providing solutions; and the use of means of communication appropriate to the discipline and the audience.

Cr

(Credit)

Provides evidence of learning that goes beyond replication of content knowledge or skills relevant to the learning outcomes. There is demonstration of substantial understanding of fundamental concepts in the field of study and the ability to apply these concepts in a variety of contexts; convincing argumentation with appropriate coherent justification; communication of ideas fluently and clearly in terms of the conventions of the discipline.

P

(Pass)

Provides sufficient evidence of the achievement of learning outcomes. There is demonstration of understanding and application of fundamental concepts of the field of study; routine argumentation with acceptable justification; communication of information and ideas adequately in terms of the conventions of the discipline. The learning attainment is considered satisfactory or adequate or competent or capable in relation to the specified outcomes

F

(Fail)

Does not provide evidence of attainment of learning outcomes. There is missing or partial or superficial or faulty understanding and application of the fundamental concepts in the field of study; missing, undeveloped, inappropriate or confusing argumentation; incomplete, confusing or lacking communication of ideas in ways that give little attention to the conventions of the discipline.

 

Withdrawing from this UG Unit

If you are considering withdrawing from this unit, please seek academic advice via https://ask.mq.edu.au before doing so as this unit may be a co-requisite or prerequisite for units in the following sessions and may impact on your progression through the degree.

Results

Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.

Delivery and Resources

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

Any references to on-campus delivery below may no longer be relevant due to COVID-19.

Please check here for updated delivery information: https://ask.mq.edu.au/account/pub/display/unit_status

REQUIRED READING

There is an expectation that you complete the scholarly reading in this unit. It is an integral part of your study of EDUC2600.

Prescribed Texts

Required from Week 1 and throughout the unit.

The following package is available from the University Cooperative Bookshop and can also be ordered online from Oxford University Press. It is essential for this unit. It is required for ALL modules in this unit.

Emmitt, M., Zbaracki, M., Komesaroff, L. & Pollard, J. (2015). Language and learning: An introduction for teaching (6th ed.). South Melbourne, Australia: Oxford University Press.

Winch, G. (2013). The grammar handbook. South Melbourne, Australia: Oxford University Press.

Students are required to complete the weekly readings in advance of each tutorial. You may choose to bring your textbooks to your weekly tutorial (internal students) and it is highly advisable to bring them to the on-campus sessions (external students). A reading template to assist your study will be available in iLearn.

RECOMMENDED READING

A list of recommended readings and references is available on the iLearn site for EDUC2600

INFORMATION ABOUT THE UNIT iLEARN SITE

This unit has a full web presence through iLearn

Students will need regular access to a computer and the Internet to complete this unit.

Weekly access to iLearn is compulsory for all students. Important assessment information will be posted here, as will other relevant unit notices and materials, including a reading template and guide to lecture note taking to assist your studies.

Various activities and materials for discussion and critical reflection are included and external students especially are encouraged to use this web component. Electronic links and suggested references will be included in the Resources section. Please check the iLearn unit regularly.

NB: Online protocols:

Think and read before you post! The answer you need is likely in the unit  guide or previous posts.

Frequently asked questions will be posted for the 2 assignments in a dedicated Forum.

This unit focuses on the APPROPRIATE use of language for your audience, purpose and context, and we expect you to demonstrate this in all your communication.

Please note that the teaching staff does not provide tuition for assessment tasks through the iLearn Forum.

Lectures

Weekly lectures are available on the web through the ECHO360 lecture component. You must listen to all lectures if you do not attend these ‘live’.

PowerPoint slides are available in iLearn in advance of the weekly lecture and/or are available in the Active Learning Tool.

Each lecture provides a Learning Focus for you. This will guide your note taking, your reflection activities, and your learning outcomes for each topic.

Questions and brief tasks will be asked of you in the lectures and your weekly and punctual attendance at the Lectures is central to your study in this unit.

The Assignments and examination all draw on material from the Lectures.

Access and technical assistance

Information for students about access to the online component of this unit is available at ilearn.mq.edu.au/login/MQ/. You will need to enter your student username and password.

Please do NOT contact the Unit Convenor regarding iLearn technical help.

No extensions will be given for any technical issues. Allow enough time for your submissions.

Assistance is available from IT Helpdesk ph: 1800 674 357, or log a request at help.mq.edu.au. OneHelp is the online IT support service for both students and staff.

This unit requires students to use several ICT and software skills:

  • Internet access: The iLearn site contains materials for this unit; it is also required for the online submission of all Assessment Tasks, and for the use of Turnitin submission for ALL tasks. 
  • Word processing, visual representations, and document formatting: You are required to use an appropriate form of software to present your assignments.
  • Uploading of assessment tasks to iLearn.
  • Library databases: You are required to use various research databases to locate sources for your assignment.

 

Student Support resources

Macquarie University has a range of services for students. If you are struggling with any aspect of academic life or career trajectory and skills, we have great supports within the university. Please refer to the comprehensive list of support services here.

Structure

The unit comprises two one-hour lectures and a one-hour tutorial. In the tutorial students will discuss issues and questions arising from the lectures and prescribed readings. They are expected to base their arguments/discussions on evidence from published research and other relevant material. Students are required to participate in small group activities and whole class discussion, to read the weekly material in advance, and to complete brief tasks either as individuals or in pairs. The detailed weekly program for EDUC2600 with the accompanying readings/ preparation is available on the unit iLearn site.

Attendance Requirements

Attendance at all tutorials is expected.  Attendance at on campus days for external students is also expected. There are resources on iLearn providing additional readings, links and materials. Lectures will also be available through Echo in iLearn from the following website link: http://ilearn.mq.edu.au

 

Unit Schedule

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

The unit schedule/topics and any references to on-campus delivery below may no longer be relevant due to COVID-19. Please consult iLearn for latest details, and check here for updated delivery information: https://ask.mq.edu.au/account/pub/display/unit_status

OVERVIEW OF THE WEEKLY CONTENT AND PROGRAM FOR EDUC2600

“There’s a cool web of language winds us in…”

Graves, R, (1927). The Cool Web.

There are 4 modules for this unit:   

1.Words

               Lectures 1.1 - 4.1

2.Texts

               Lectures 4.2 – 6.2

3.Sounds

               Lectures 7.1 – 10.2

[Professional Experience – Weeks 8, 9, 10; no lectures in Weeks 8 and 9; online lectures only for Week 10]

4.Images

               Lectures 11.1 – 12.2

Conclusion: Lectures 13.1 and 13.2

A fully detailed weekly program for EDUC2600 with the accompanying readings/ preparation is available on the unit iLearn site.

 

For your learning / revision: ONLINE QUIZ: MODULE 1

Available online through iLearn. NON ASSESSABLE

This is a learning activity to assist you in your studies and to revise the content of Module 1. It will be opened during the mid semester break and again for exam revision at the end of classes. Timing is advised on iLearn.

The quiz is not formally graded and is NOT included as part of the Unit’s assessment instruments. Students should complete this quiz to support and revise their learning in the Unit.

An online quiz of 25 multiple-choice questions will be available from the middle of Week 7. It will focus on the content of Module 1: Words. It will be based on the lectures of Weeks 1, 2, 3, and 4 and your related prescribed readings.

You should revise all the work completed in Module 1 as preparation.

This task is designed to consolidate your knowledge of the key concepts underpinning the study of this field. Questions will target your understanding of literacy, language forms and grammar.

The questions will be generated randomly in our iLearn unit and you will have 2 opportunities to complete the quiz within a time limit. Correct answers are displayed for you. Further instructions, if needed, will be posted in iLearn.

This quiz should be completed as an INDIVIDUAL task.

 

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

Students seeking more policy resources can visit the Student Policy Gateway (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/student-policy-gateway). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.

If you would like to see all the policies relevant to Learning and Teaching visit Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central).

Student Code of Conduct

Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/study/getting-started/student-conduct​

Results

Results published on platform other than eStudent, (eg. iLearn, Coursera etc.) or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au or if you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au

Attendance for undergraduate units

All Internal tutorials begin in Week 1 of Session.

Activities completed during weekly tutorials (internal) or on campus days (external) are essential for building the core knowledge and/or skills required to demonstrate the learning outcomes of this unit [and to meet the AITSL Graduate Teacher Standards and/or ACECQA requirements].

 Attendance at all tutorials or on campus days is expected and the roll will be taken.

Students are required to attend the tutorial in which they are enrolled. Any changes to tutorial enrolments must be completed officially through e-student. Please do not contact the unit convenor requesting a change.

Unit Expectations

  • Students are expected to read weekly readings before completing tasks and attending tutorials
  • Students are expected to listen/attend weekly lectures before completing tasks and attending tutorials
  • Students are required to make a genuine attempt at all assessment tasks to pass the unit.

Note: It is not the responsibility of unit staff to contact students who have failed to submit assignments.  If you have any missing items of assessment, it is your responsibility to make contact with the unit convenor.

Workload

In a 10 credit-point unit you should expect to commit nine (9) hours of your time per week to your studies.

Electronic Communication

It is the student’s responsibility to check all electronic communication on a regular weekly basis.  Communication may occur via:

  • Official MQ Student Email Address [Note: Please do not email staff from any email account other than your uni email account.]
  • The Dialogue function on iLearn
  • Other iLearn communication functions

External Students

  1. The on-campus sessions on Saturday 4th April and Saturday 9th May are essential to student engagement and learning, and attendance on all days is expected. Failure to attend, or to have an approved Special Consideration, may result in a Fail grade for the unit. Please see attendance requirements in this unit guide. 
  2. Prior to the on-campus sessions, you should have read the prescribed readings and listened to the lectures. Summarise the main points, and make a note of the key terms and definitions. Prepare any discussion questions of your own that you wish to share.
  3. Please make effective use of the online component of the unit and access iLearn regularly. Keep up to date with listening to the lectures on a weekly basis.

Further specific details and any updates about times and locations will be posted on iLearn as an Announcement during the first half of the semester.

 

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

Learning Skills

Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to help you improve your marks and take control of your study.

The Library provides online and face to face support to help you find and use relevant information resources. 

Student Services and Support

Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.

Student Enquiries

For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au

If you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au

IT Help

For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/

When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.

Changes from Previous Offering

In 2020 ongoing refinements have been made to the learning program.