Intermed Lit Assmnt & Instr

Catalog description

Provides a scientific, research-based understanding of the cognitive, sociocultural, linguistic, and motivational influences on literacy and language development. Students develop and apply foundational knowledge of literacy development for intermediate elementary grades 4-6 using scientifically grounded, evidence-based instructional and assessment practices. The course examines reading research; the neurobiological foundations of learning to read; literacy assessment for universal screening, instructional planning, and progress monitoring within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS); the implementation of scientifically based practices and high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) across components of reading and writing instruction; and strategies for integrating these components into culturally and linguistically diverse intermediate classrooms. Students design, adapt, and implement interactive whole-group and small-group literacy lessons and differentiate instruction to address varied literacy and multilingual needs. They employ a range of formal and informal literacy assessments to measure student progress, inform instructional decisions, and communicate with stakeholders. Students also analyze professional resources to critically examine their own cultural experiences and the ways these experiences shape instructional practice. Drawing on knowledge of the students they teach, candidates design engaging literacy and language-learning environments and experiences. The course requires clinical practice with 4th-6th grade students.