ED 311 Words That Matter 1: Literacy for Every Learner

Lecture Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Introduces the foundations of literacy development across reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Focuses on how children acquire language and literacy skills, with attention to multilingual learners, students with reading difficulties, and those with disabilities, including dyslexia. Examines strategies for differentiated instruction, assessment, and responsive teaching that ensure all learners have equitable access to literacy.

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Bachelor of Applied Science in Elementary Education Program, or approval of instructor.
Maximum number of credits course can be taken for: 3

Student Learning Outcomes:

Explain the major components of literacy acquisition, including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. (Lit 1, Lit 2)
Analyze student literacy behaviors and developmental stages to inform targeted instruction. (MS 2, MS 14, Lit 1)
Design evidence-based literacy lessons that support diverse learners, including multilingual students and those with reading disabilities or dyslexia. (Lit 5, Lit 6, SpEd 3, MS 10)
Integrate reading, writing, and oral language instruction across content areas to strengthen comprehension and communication. (MS 9, MS 2)
Apply formative assessment practices to monitor literacy growth and adapt instruction to individual learner needs. (MS 14, SpEd 3)

Content Outline

Foundations of Literacy Acquisition
- Overview of reading, writing, speaking, and listening development
- Major components of literacy: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension
Language and Literacy Development
- How children acquire and develop language and literacy skills
- Understanding developmental stages and literacy behaviors
Supporting Diverse Learners
- Strategies for multilingual learners and students with reading difficulties or dyslexia
- Differentiated and inclusive instructional practices
Evidence-Based Literacy Instruction
- Designing lessons that integrate reading, writing, and oral language across content areas
- Culturally and linguistically responsive approaches
Assessment and Responsive Teaching
- Applying formative assessments to monitor literacy growth
- Using data to inform instruction and support individual learner needs