Language and Literacy in Foundational Years, a three-credit course is meant to develop students’ perspectives on language education and introduce them to pedagogical practices that are
important for language acquisition and literacy instruction in the foundational years. 

The course will delve into the issues and debates related to multilingualism, children’s languages and emergent literacy, enabling students to critically examine the different approaches to language education. They will be introduced to the broader and more inclusive conceptions of literacy to develop a holistic understanding of the aims of language and literacy in the foundational years. The course will
discuss the principles and pedagogical practices needed to plan curricular experiences in this area, keeping in mind the curricular and pedagogical linkages between pre-primary and early grades.

Students will understand the importance of conversations, storytelling, extended discussions and play in supporting children’s oral language development and literacy. The link between thinking, listening, speaking, reading and writing will be emphasised. The role of physical, social and culturally responsive
learning environments in developing language will be explored. The course will also provide opportunities for the students to develop and evaluate resource materials for teaching and learning
language and literacy in the foundational stage.