Explores language - its origins, properties, use, structure, and meaning. Studies sound systems, word-information systems, syntatic systems, and derivations of meaning from spoken and written forms. Includes first and second language acquisition and properties of visual languages.

Explores the relationship between language and culture. Includes the language socialization of children, gender differences in language, standard varieties and dialects of language and the effect of language on thought. Examines the nature of language in power relationships.

Introduces the teaching of English to speakers of other languages. Intended for those who contemplate a career working with non-native speakers of English. Through a program of lectures, readings, discussions, observations and practical teaching exercises, students will explore the educational contexts in which English is taught and learned. In addition, the course will offer practical techniques for teaching and assessing the skill areas of listening and speaking, reading, writing and grammar. The foundation of the methods explored will be based on theories in applied linguistics.

Provides an introduction to the study and application of concepts and theories from Linguistics and Health Communication. Focuses on practical applications of effective communication strategies across diverse patient populations by discussing case studies from different healthcare settings, and by analyzing actual provider-patient interactions to understand how specific language choices contribute to constructing meaning in health communication. Includes a strong focus on patients’ perspectives regarding language use and culture-specific characteristics surrounding illness and personal identity, patient advocacy, cooperation, and consent. (Also listed as HSC 225. Credit will be given for LNG 225 or HSC 225, but not both.)

Explores concepts, issues, principles, and design of second language assessments. Includes formal and informal evaluation of reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.

Explores important theories in second language acquisition (SLA), especially as they relate to language teaching. Includes age, psychological factors, sociocultural factors, and linguistic factors. Examines the connections between theory and teaching practice in the language classroom. Prerequisite: LNG 105 or permission of instructor.

Explore theories in teaching grammar to second language learners. Teachers will study syntactic and discourse structures of English and common mistakes in those structures made by second language learners. Students will practice and create classroom materials designed to help English language learners in the oral and written communication. This course is an elective component for Illinois State Board of Education certification in Teaching English as a Second Language.

Explores the historical, political, sociocultural and educational context that supports and constrains equitable educational opportunities for linguistically and culturally diverse students in US schools. The course considers policies on appropriate school services for English language learners. Issues surrounding bilingualism are considered through the educational and psycholinguistic lens as well as implications for language instruction.

Offers practical techniques for teaching and assessing language skills in bilingual programs. Based on theories of first and second language acquisition, this course focuses on identifying, developing, and evaluating appropriate materials and strategies to create a supportive learning environment for culturally and linguistically diverse learners.

Provides students with TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) classroom experience including critical observations of ESL classes and detailed activity planning/lesson development. In addition, scaffolded teaching experiences will offer students the opportunity to become familiar with the multiple steps of the language teaching process and the overall requirements of being a TESOL professional. Throughout the practicum, students will reflect on their own effectiveness as ESL teachers and present way to improve the quality of their instruction. NOTE: Students may not register for this course until all other coursework has been completed for the TESOL certificate.