EDU 256 Language and Literacy: Elementary Curriculum

This course focuses on the elements of language and literacy learning in the elementary grades and methods for teaching a comprehensive, balanced literacy program to the full range of learners which includes, but is not limited to struggling readers, students with special needs, English learners, speakers of non-standard English, and advnaced learners. Current theoretical and practical aspects of language arts curriculum and instruction will be learned. These include systematic, explicit instruction and strategies for developing a comprehensive, balanced literacy program for native English speakers and English language learners, assessment skills necessary for helping individual students, and exploring appropriate materials. Methods and principles for developing proficient readers and writers and for analyzing students' strengths and areas of needed growth will be studied and practiced. Collaborative methods and inclusive practices will be implementated through a coteaching model by Education Specialist and General Education faculty. Note: Fifteen hours of focused observations and participation (plus travel time) are required in an exemplary elementary school classroom during language arts instruction. Candidates must have access to transportation to the fieldwork site. Prerequisites: EDU 207 and EDU 250. (Submission of Certificate of Clearance is required for eligibility to complete this course due to the fieldwork component.)