LANGUAGE & LITERACY I

This course provides a solid foundation in the theoretical and pedagogical underpinnings of best practices that support language and literacy acquisition from birth through the early primary grades, with a special focus on how language contributes to literacy attainment. The use of children's literature (picture book genre) in the language arts curriculum receives special attention. There is also a focus on the development of the skills of speaking, listening, writing, reading, and viewing, essential components of literacy. Students will utilize several checklists to evaluate children's speech and language learning and conduct appropriate literacy assessments with children and programs. The importance of family literacy partnerships and the significance of meeting the needs of second language learners and bilingual children will be addressed. Knowledge regarding content, instructional strategies, age appropriate materials, and technology for intentional teaching will be discussed and practiced. Completion of an embedded clinical experience is required.