The aim of this module is to develop in the student a thorough understanding of the role of the early childhood education and care environment in early literacy and numeracy development. This module will provide an extensive opportunity to investigate the main theories relevant to literacy and numeracy development in the early childhood education and care. The module will introduce students to the critical role of play in developing early literacy and numeracy skills in young children. The students will examine some curriculum approaches to early literacy and numeracy development. National and international initiatives to enhance early literacy and numeracy development will be explored.
A Rationale for Early Literacy and Numeracy
A pedagogy of play: recognising the relationship between play and early literacy and numeracy development.Relevant national and international policy. Role of the adult and the learning environment in promoting a positive engagement with literacy and numeracy.
Theory of literacy development
• Early Literacy Theory• The relationship between communication, language and Literacy• The principles of learning and development underpinning Early Literacy• Early Literacy Practice• Literacy experiences in Early Years services• Enhancing oral language and literacy• Phonological awareness• Develop and promote print knowledge and concepts and development writing/mark making• Supporting children with specific requirements.
Theory of Numeracy development
• Early Numeracy Theory• The principles of learning and development underpinning Early Numeracy• The language of maths• Early Numeracy Practice • Develop and promote concepts about numbers, pattern and counting, measures, shape and space.• Recording numbers• Construction play and numeracy development• Supporting children with specific requirements.
Curriculum approaches to early literacy and numeracy
• Montessori• High Scope• Tus Maith (Best Start- Barnardos)• Community and Department of Education initiatives on early learning
Students will engage in two weekly lectures and participate in one tutorial each week.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |