Language, Literacy and Literature in Early Childhood

Catalog description

This course provides an overview of language and literacy development in young children, birth to age 9. The relationship between oral and written language is investigated. Students examine and evaluate a wide variety of quality literature that can be used to facilitate children’s emerging language and literacy skills. Developmentally appropriate strategies that address the PA Early Learning Standards for language and literacy, the role of teachers and parents in promoting communication, and early literacy and in creating print-rich environments are explored. A weekly field observation in early childhood programs, schools, agencies or therapeutic setting is required. Students must have three current clearances: FBI Fingerprint Clearance, a Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Clearance, and a Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Child Abuse History Clearance and meet the local requirements of the field placement site, including the National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification Clearance.