LST 540 - Creating and Managing a Literate Environment Credits: 3

This course explores instructional approaches and curricular materials that are used within a comprehensive, integrated and balanced literacy program, in particular the literacy-related, curricular frameworks for self-contained and departmentalized primary and middle level classrooms. Candidates will consider the impact of classroom environment, specifically the quality and use of resources and methods designed to optimize learning in PK-8 classrooms. In addition, the Common Core State Standards will serve as the curricular competencies that shape literacy instruction, specifically in reading and writing. Candidates will analyze videos of classroom environments within PK-8 grade levels; design a strategy intervention block of instruction for one grade level; and evaluate instructional practices in an existing classroom to describe strengths and limitations, as well as recommend research-based, best practice adaptations within that classroom.