COURSE CURRICULUM

The MA Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) at the University of Reading is a research-informed programme that combines applied linguistics theory with practical language teaching skills. Core modules begin with Foundations of Language Study, which develops understanding of English phonetics, phonology, grammar, and sentence structure, including tense, aspect, modality, and noun phrase analysis. Second Language Learning Principles examines how people acquire additional languages and how learning theories influence classroom teaching practices. Research Design Methods trains students in qualitative and quantitative research approaches used in language education, while Issues in Language Skills Teaching focuses on developing effective strategies for teaching listening, speaking, reading, and writing in ESL/EFL contexts. The Dissertation module allows students to conduct independent research on a TESOL-related topic. Optional modules provide further specialization, including Child Language Development, Intercultural Communication, Corpus Linguistics, Sociolinguistics, Approaches to Discourse Analysis, Language Testing Principles, Language and Migration, Neuroscience of Language, and Principles of Applied Linguistics. Together, these modules build strong expertise in language analysis, teaching methodology, curriculum design, and assessment practices. The programme prepares graduates for careers in English language teaching, teacher training, curriculum development, language assessment, and international education, with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and real-world classroom application supported by contemporary linguistic research.