EDUC 337 - Instructional Reading Strategies & Assessment

(3 hours) Prerequisite: EDUC 201. This course is a study of instructional methods and strategies for teaching reading and ELA in the early childhood and elementary school classrooms. This course is intended for undergraduate child development majors who are seeking a non-licensure degree. Major emphasis will be given to the 5 components of a scientifically researched reading program: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and text comprehension, as well as writing. Additionally, students will assess and address the literacy needs and performance of students in a pre-k classroom, based on performance data, personal background, individual learning styles, and classroom behavior. Candidates demonstrate the ability to assess the progress of individual students as well as that of the class as a whole by collecting data and making data driven decisions for individual and program improvement. Candidates employ multiple assessments for measuring student growth and understanding and can clearly explain student performance to parents (through the use of data collection charts and explanations in layman’s terms). A minimum of a 10-hour practicum is required. Students are responsible for arranging their own transportation to designated or assigned sites. This course cannot be challenged.