Lesson 6: Developing Children’s Understanding of Literary Texts

As educators, we know how crucial it is to instill a love of reading and an appreciation for
literature in our students. However, it's not enough to simply expose them to books. We need
to guide them in developing a critical understanding of the texts they read and encourage
them to engage with the material on a deeper level. In this lecture, we will discuss strategies
for developing critical thinking among literature learners, and the use of pupil-generated board
displays as a tool for enhancing comprehension.
Activity:
Choose a literary work that is appropriate for the level of the students.
Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a section of the text to analyze.
Provide the students with a set of critical thinking questions that relate to the literary work,
such as:
What is the author's purpose in writing this piece?
What themes are present in this text, and how do they relate to the author's message?
What literary devices are used in this text, and how do they contribute to the overall meaning
of the work?
What is the significance of the title of the work?
What is the significance of the setting, and how does it contribute to the overall meaning of
the work?
How do the characters in the text relate to one another, and how do their relationships
contribute to the overall meaning of the work?
Have each group discuss and answer the critical thinking questions related to their assigned
section of the text.
After the groups have completed their analysis, have them present their findings to the class.
Finally, have a class discussion about the literary work as a whole, using the findings from the
group presentations as a starting point.

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Daedalus was a skilled craftsman and inventor who was known for his intelligence and
ingenuity. He was born in Athens, but eventually moved to the island of Crete, where he
became the chief architect and inventor for King Minos.
One of Daedalus's most famous creations was the Labyrinth, a complex maze that was
designed to house the Minotaur, a creature that was half-man, half-bull. However, Daedalus
eventually fell out of favor with King Minos and was imprisoned on the island along with his
son, Icarus.
Daedalus was determined to escape from Crete and return to Athens, but he knew that King
Minos would never let him leave the island alive. He hatched a plan to build two sets of wings
made from feathers and wax, one for himself and one for his son. He warned Icarus not to fly
too close to the sun, as the heat would melt the wax and cause the wings to fail. However,
Icarus was young and impulsive, and he was eager to experience the thrill of flying.
On the day of their escape, Daedalus and Icarus put on their wings and took to the sky. At
first, Icarus was filled with wonder and excitement as he soared through the air. He flew over
islands, mountains, and oceans, reveling in the feeling of freedom and adventure.
However, as he flew higher and higher, Icarus began to forget his father's warnings. He flew
too close to the sun, and the heat melted the wax on his wings. The feathers fell away, and
Icarus plummeted from the sky and into the sea, where he drowned.
Daedalus was heartbroken by the loss of his son, but he continued to fly on his own wings
until he reached the safety of the shore. He eventually made his way back to Athens, where
he lived out the rest of his life.
The story of Daedalus and Icarus has become a cautionary tale about the dangers of
overreaching and the consequences of not heeding wise advice. It has been retold in various
forms throughout history, including in literature, art, and popular culture.

Developing Critical Thinking among Literature Learners:

Critical thinking is the ability to analyze information, evaluate arguments, and draw
conclusions based on evidence. It's an essential skill for success in academics and in life.
When it comes to literature, critical thinking involves analyzing the text, understanding the
author's intent, and interpreting the themes and symbolism. So, how can we develop critical
thinking among our literature learners? Here are some strategies:
1. Questioning: Encourage students to ask questions as they read. This could be done
through class discussions or individual reflection. Ask them to think about the
characters, the plot, and the themes of the text. What is the author trying to say? What
are the underlying messages?
2. Analysis: Help students to analyze the text by breaking it down into smaller parts. This
could be done through close reading, where students examine the language, structure,
and tone of the text. Encourage them to look for patterns and connections.
3. Evaluation: Encourage students to evaluate the text based on their own experiences
and perspectives. What do they think about the characters and their motivations? Do
they agree with the author's message?
4. Synthesis: Help students to synthesize the information they've gathered by connecting
the themes and ideas from the text to their own lives and experiences.
Using Pupil-Generated Board Displays:
Another tool for enhancing comprehension and critical thinking is the use of pupil-generated
board displays. These are displays created by the students themselves, which highlight key
themes, characters, and events from the text. Here's how it works:
1. Select a text: Choose a text that you want your students to focus on. This could be a
novel, short story, poem, or play.
2. Create groups: Divide your class into small groups of 3-4 students.
3. Assign a task: Assign each group a task related to the text. For example, one group
could create a character analysis board, while another group could create a timeline of
events.
4. Provide materials: Provide the students with materials such as paper, markers, and
sticky notes.
5. Allow time: Allow the students time to work on their displays in class.
6. Presentations: Once the displays are complete, have each group present their work to
the class. This will allow the students to share their ideas and insights with their peers.
In conclusion, developing children's understanding of literary texts requires more than just
reading. It involves encouraging critical thinking, analysis, evaluation, and synthesis. lit-
generated board displays can be a powerful tool for enhancing comprehension and critical
thinking skills. By using these strategies, we can help our students to become better readers,
thinkers, and learners.

Lesson 7: The Languages Curriculum in the K-12 program.

As you all know, K-12 is a program implemented in most countries to improve the quality of
education, and one of the key components of this program is the Languages Curriculum.
The Languages Curriculum in the K-12 program aims to develop the following:
a. students' communication skills in different languages, including the mother tongue,
second language, and foreign language.
- In the early years of the K-12 program, the focus is on developing students' oral
communication skills in their mother tongue. This is important because it is the
language that students are most familiar with, and it forms the foundation for all other
languages that they will learn. As they progress through the grades, students will be
introduced to a second language, which is typically the official language of the country.
This is designed to provide students with the skills necessary to communicate
effectively in a variety of contexts, including social, academic, and professional
settings.
b. designed to provide a solid foundation for language learning and to ensure that
students are proficient in multiple languages by the time they graduate from high
school.
- In the later years of the K-12 program, students will be introduced to a foreign
language. The aim of this is to provide students with a broader perspective on the
world and to enhance their cultural awareness. Learning a foreign language also has
many benefits, such as improved cognitive development and increased job
opportunities in a globalized world.
The Languages Curriculum in the K-12 program is structured in a way that allows students to
build on their language skills from one grade to the next. The curriculum is designed to be
progressive, and students are expected to demonstrate mastery of the language skills they
have learned before moving on to more advanced concepts.
Assessment is an important part of the Languages Curriculum in the K-12 program. Students
are assessed regularly to determine their level of proficiency in different languages. This is
done through a variety of methods, such as written and oral exams, projects, and
presentations. The results of these assessments are used to provide feedback to students
and to identify areas where they may need additional support.
In conclusion, the Languages Curriculum in the K-12 program is designed to provide students
with a strong foundation in multiple languages. The curriculum is structured in a way that
allows students to build on their language skills from one grade to the next, and assessment
is an important part of the program to ensure that students are progressing as expected.
Learning multiple languages has many benefits, and the K-12 program aims to prepare
students for success in a globalized world.
- Domains of Literacy and the competencies to be developed in each domain.
Literacy can be broadly defined as the ability to read, write, and communicate effectively. It is
an essential skill that is crucial for success in today's world. However, literacy is not a single
skill or ability, but rather, it is made up of several domains, each of which requires specific
competencies to be developed. These domains are as follows:
1. Phonological Awareness: Phonological awareness refers to the ability to recognize
and manipulate the sounds that make up language. It includes the ability to identify
individual sounds, such as phonemes and syllables, and to understand the
relationships between these sounds. The competencies to be developed in this domain
include phonemic awareness, phoneme-grapheme correspondence, and decoding
skills.
2. Vocabulary: Vocabulary refers to the knowledge of words and their meanings. It
includes the ability to understand, learn, and use words in context. The competencies
to be developed in this domain include the ability to recognize and understand the
meaning of words, to use context clues to determine the meaning of unfamiliar words,
and to develop a broad vocabulary.
3. Comprehension: Comprehension refers to the ability to understand and make
meaning from text. It includes the ability to understand the main idea, draw inferences,
and make connections between different pieces of information. The competencies to
be developed in this domain include the ability to identify and summarize main ideas, to
draw inferences, and to understand the structure and organization of different types of
texts.
4. Writing: Writing refers to the ability to communicate ideas and information through
written language. It includes the ability to plan, organize, and revise written work. The
competencies to be developed in this domain include the ability to write with a clear
purpose and audience in mind, to organize ideas in a logical and coherent manner, and
to use appropriate grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
5. Oral Language: Oral language refers to the ability to communicate effectively through
spoken language. It includes the ability to understand and use language in a variety of
contexts and situations. The competencies to be developed in this domain include the
ability to use appropriate language and tone for different audiences and situations, to
understand and use nonverbal communication, and to listen actively and respond
appropriately.
In conclusion, literacy is not a single skill but rather a set of interconnected domains that
require specific competencies to be developed. The ability to read, write, and communicate
effectively is essential for success in today's world, and developing these competencies in
each of these domains is crucial for achieving this goal.

Literacy in the mother tongue and the second language/s: Bridging among languages.
Language is an essential tool for communication, and literacy is a crucial component of
language. It is the ability to read and write, which is necessary for success in various aspects
of life. In today's world, multilingualism is becoming increasingly important, and being literate
in multiple languages can open numerous opportunities for individuals.
When it comes to literacy, the mother tongue plays a crucial role. Because of the following
reasons:
a. The mother tongue is the first language a child learns and is the language that is
most familiar to them. Research has shown that learning in the mother tongue can
improve a child's understanding of concepts, making it easier for them to learn
additional languages. Literacy in the mother tongue can also help children develop a
strong sense of identity and cultural pride, which can lead to better academic
performance and mental health.
b. Being literate in multiple languages can facilitate communication and
understanding among people from different cultures and backgrounds. It can
also increase opportunities for education, employment, and social mobility.
c. Learning a second language can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding.
There are several ways to bridge between languages, and one of them is through trans-
language. Trans-language is the ability to use multiple languages together and to recognize
that each language has its unique features and strengths. Trans-language recognizes that the
boundaries between languages are not fixed, and that language is constantly evolving.
By using trans-language strategies, individuals can:
1. Use their mother tongue to learn a second language, and vice versa. For example, a
teacher can use the mother tongue to explain a concept to a student who is still
developing their second language skills.
2. Student can use their second language to clarify a concept that they understand better
in that language.
In conclusion, literacy in both the mother tongue and additional languages is essential for
success in today's world. Developing lite
racy in multiple languages can bridge communication and understanding among people from
different cultures and backgrounds. Trans-language is a strategy that can help individuals
bridge between languages and recognize the strengths and unique features of each
language. Thank you for listening.
LESSON 8: Structuring the Literature Lesson Plan
I. Introduction: The first part of a literature lesson plan is the introduction. This is where
the teacher introduces the topic of the lesson and provides an overview of what the
students can expect to learn. The introduction should be engaging and capture the
students' attention, so they are excited to learn about the topic.
II. Pre-reading Activities: The second part of a literature lesson plan is pre-reading
activities. This is where the teacher prepares the students for the reading by
introducing key vocabulary, providing background information, and setting the purpose
for reading. The pre-reading activities can be done individually or in groups, and they
should help students develop their comprehension skills.
III. Reading: The third part of a literature lesson plan is the actual reading of the text.
During this part, the teacher should guide the students through the reading, highlighting
key passages, asking questions, and encouraging discussion. It's important to ensure
that all students have access to the text and can read it at their own pace.
IV. Post-reading Activities: The fourth part of a literature lesson plan is post-reading
activities. This is where the teacher assesses the students' understanding of the text
and encourages them to think critically about what they've read. Post-reading activities
can include discussions, writing assignments, and creative projects.
V. Assessment: The fifth part of a literature lesson plan is assessment. This is where the
teacher evaluates the students' learning and progress. Assessment can take many
forms, including quizzes, tests, writing assignments, and oral presentations. It's
important to provide feedback to students on their performance, so they can improve
and continue to learn.
VI. Closure: The final part of a literature lesson plan is closure. This is where the teacher
wraps up the lesson and summarizes the key points. Closure can also be used to
preview the next lesson and encourage students to continue their learning outside of
the classroom.
In conclusion, a comprehensive literature lesson plan should include an engaging
introduction, pre-reading activities, reading, post-reading activities, assessment, and closure.
By structuring the lesson plan in this way, teachers can ensure that students are engaged,
challenged, and developing their reading comprehension skills.

Lesson 9: Literature-Grammar Integration: The Four-Pronged Approach

In this lecture, we will explore how literature and grammar can be integrated for a more
effective language learning experience. We will also discuss the four-pronged approach to
integrating literature and grammar.
Literature and grammar are two essential components of language learning. Literature
exposes learners to different writing styles, genres, and authors, while grammar provides
learners with the tools to effectively communicate in writing and speaking. However, many
language learners struggle to integrate the two, often seeing literature and grammar as
separate and disconnected subjects.
The four-pronged approach to integrating literature and grammar aims to bridge this gap and
provide learners with a comprehensive approach to language learning. The four prongs are as
follows:
1. Reading comprehension: The first prong of the approach is to focus on reading
comprehension. Learners are encouraged to read a variety of texts, including fiction,
non-fiction, poetry, and drama. By reading these texts, learners can improve their
understanding of the language and its nuances.
2. Vocabulary building: The second prong is focused on building vocabulary. Learners are
encouraged to keep a vocabulary journal or use flashcards to learn new words. By
expanding their vocabulary, learners can better understand and appreciate the texts
they read.
3. Grammar instruction: The third prong is focused on grammar instruction. Learners are
taught grammar rules and structures in a way that is relevant to the literature they are
reading. This approach helps learners see the practical applications of grammar in their
reading and writing.
4. Writing practice: The fourth and final prong is focused on writing practice. Learners are
encouraged to write about the literature they read, using the grammar structures and
vocabulary they have learned. By practicing writing, learners can solidify their
understanding of the language and develop their own writing style.
By using this four-pronged approach, learners can integrate literature and grammar in a way
that is engaging, practical, and effective. This approach helps learners see the connections
between literature and grammar, and how they can be used together to create a deeper
understanding of the language.
In conclusion, integrating literature and grammar is a powerful tool for language learning. By
using the four-pronged approach, learners can improve their reading comprehension,
vocabulary, grammar skills, and writing ability. As language educators, it is our responsibility to
encourage learners to explore the connections between literature and grammar, and to
provide them with the tools they need to succeed.

LESSON 10: Content and Approaches

Content:
- Refers to the subject matter that is taught in schools, colleges, and universities. It can
range from specific courses such as math, science, and literature to broader areas of
study such as social sciences, humanities, and languages.
- Content plays a crucial role in education as it provides a foundation for learning,
enabling students to acquire knowledge, skills, and values.
Approaches:
- Refer to the methods, techniques, and strategies used to deliver the content to the
learners. There are several approaches to teaching, such as traditional lecturing,
project-based learning, inquiry-based learning, and collaborative learning, to name a
few. The choice of approach can significantly impact the learning outcomes of students.
Teachers must take in mind to select appropriate approaches based on the content they
teach. For example, a traditional lecture may be more suitable for teaching mathematical
concepts, while project-based learning may be more effective for teaching creative writing. By
selecting the right approach for a specific content, teachers can ensure that students receive
the best learning experience.
Promoting active learning and encouraging students to think critically can significantly improve
learning outcomes. On the other hand, approaches that rely on rote memorization and
passive learning may lead to lower retention rates.
In conclusion, content and approaches are essential components of education.
1. Content provides the foundation for learning, while approaches help deliver the content
effectively to students.
2. Teachers must carefully select the right approach for the content they teach to ensure
the best possible learning outcomes.
3. Students can gain the knowledge, skills, and values they need to succeed in their
future endeavors through the varied approaches that we are doing in the class.
Reading is an essential life skill that plays a crucial role in a person's success in various
aspects of life. However, not all children find reading enjoyable, and some may even dislike it.
Thus, as educators or parents, it is our role to encourage and foster a love for reading in
young readers.
A. The Role of Children's Literature in Developing Love for Reading
- One of the ways to develop a love for reading is through children's literature. Children's
literature offers a wide variety of stories that are tailored to a young audience, making it
easier for them to understand and enjoy. Children's literature also sparks imagination
and helps young readers develop empathy and critical thinking skills.

B. Ways of Sharing Stories to Young Readers.

- To develop a love for reading in young readers, it is important to share stories with
them. There are various ways of sharing stories, such as reading aloud, storytelling,
and shared reading. Reading aloud to children is an effective way to introduce them to
new books and stories, and it also helps improve their listening comprehension skills.

C. Pre-, During, Post-Reading Activities

- To further enhance a child's reading experience, it is important to incorporate pre-,
during, and post-reading activities.
 Pre-reading activities may include introducing the title, author, and illustrator,
predicting the story's plot, and exploring the book's cover and illustrations.
 During reading activities may include discussing difficult words, asking
comprehension questions, and making connections to the story.
 Post-reading activities may include summarizing the story, retelling the story in
their own words, and creating art or crafts related to the story.

D. Unlocking Difficult Words

- One of the reasons why some children may dislike reading is because they struggle
with difficult words. As educators, it is important to teach children how to unlock difficult
words by using context clues, looking up words in the dictionary, or breaking down the
word into smaller parts.
E. Motivation-Motive Question Tandem (K-W-L, Prediction Chart, etc.)
- Another way to encourage a love for reading is by using the motivation-motive question
tandem. Examples of these include the K-W-L chart, prediction chart, and other graphic
organizers that help children develop a sense of curiosity and excitement about the
story they are about to read.
 K-W-L chart: a graphic organizer that helps students to organize their prior
knowledge. Ask questions and later summarize their learning.
- It stands for "What I Know", "What I Want to Know", and "What I Learned"
For example, if a student is studying the American Revolution, they might write
down what they already know about the American Revolution in the "What I Know"
column, and in the "What I Want to Know" column they might write down questions they
have, such as "How many planets are in our solar system?" or "What is the biggest
planet?". After learning more about the topic, they can then fill in the "What I Learned"
column.
 Prediction chart: a graphic organizer that helps students to make predictions
based on their prior knowledge and then confirm or refute their predictions after
learning more about the topic.
- The prediction chart has two columns, "Prediction" and "Confirmation".
For example, if a student is reading a book about animals in the rainforest, they might
make a prediction in the "Prediction" column, such as "I predict that the jaguar is the
biggest predator in the rainforest". After reading the book and learning more, they can
then confirm or refute their prediction in the "Confirmation" column, writing something
like "My prediction was partially correct. While the jaguar is a top predator, it is not the
biggest predator in the rainforest.”
 Other graphic organizers: There are many other graphic organizers that can be
used to help students visualize and organize information. Here are a few examples:
- Mind Map: A mind map is a diagram used to visually organize information. It is
often used to brainstorm ideas, create a hierarchy of information, or to show
relationships between different ideas.
- Venn Diagram: A Venn diagram is a graphic organizer that is used to compare
and contrast two or more things. It consists of overlapping circles, with each
circle representing a different thing being compared.
- T-Chart: A T-chart is a graphic organizer that is used to compare and contrast
two things. It consists of two columns, with each column representing one of
the things being compared. This organizer can be used to compare and
contrast anything from characters in a book to different types of plants.
F. During Reading Activities - are also important in developing a love for reading. One
such activity is asking comprehension questions at different levels of comprehension to
help children understand the story better. These levels of comprehension include literal,
inferential, and evaluative questions.
G. Post-Reading Activities- can help reinforce a child's love for reading. These activities
can include creating a book report, having a book discussion with peers, or even acting
out scenes from the book.