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This unit covers a wide range of topics about teaching and learning. General theories about learning and development were briefly discussed, such as maturation theory, environmental theory and constructivism which is considered as a combination of the first two theories. There is an explanation about the process of language acquisition of native language, as well as the second language. I?ve learnt that it is necessary to adopt one suitable approach to my teaching. Though it is possible to combine different approaches, it might confuse not only the children but the teacher as well. I?ve also learnt that young learners in this course are divided into two groups and each group has different methodology. We use the EP (Engage and Practice) methodology for the 1st group (5-9 year olds) while ESA for the 2nd group (9-13 year olds). Aside from arranging the students in rows, there are better seating arrangements to consider like circular, half-circle, group tables. This will depend on the activity and the aim or objective of the teacher for the class. For example, a half-circle arrangement is suitable for both student interaction and board work. Along with the organization of the physical surroundings, we should also consider the teacher?s position, teachers and students resources, student?s work and the teacher?s role in generating classroom atmosphere. Different skills that the students want and need to learn were also discussed. The chart shown for each group is a very useful guide and may be used as the basis of a course curriculum. If ever the school is using the PYP program, this unit gives a brief idea what the skills needed are and what the themes would be like. Maturation was fully explained here and I find the list of the character traits between group 1 and group 2 very helpful in my understanding of the process of maturation and the changes that will take place in the classroom as the students get older. Aside from a general list of what each group likes and dislikes, the varying skills of each age group were also given and descriptions of what are involved in a typical classroom of each age group. In general, this unit is very informative and helpful in my understanding of young learners and will help me a lot to teach English to young learners effectively.
