This unit builds on pre-service teachers' knowledge of language, literacy and learners, and extends their knowledge of the relationship between oral and written language.  An emphasis is placed on the development of pre-service teachers’ knowledge and competence in effectively addressing diverse literacy learning needs within junior primary classrooms, Years 1 – 3.  The unit focuses on current research and theories of literacy learning and teaching reading, writing and oral language in the junior primary years. Strategies for assessment are introduced.  Pre-service teachers will be given the opportunity to participate in school-based experiences and interact with a variety of multimedia resources.