EDU 526 - Language & Early Literacy

Course unit(s): 1
This course aims to provide an understanding of language and early literacy development of diverse young children (birth to age 9). Theories of first language acquisition provide a framework for understanding stages of oral language development and functions of oral language. The relationship between language acquisition and reading and writing processes are explored through the emergent literacy perspective. Topics in early literacy development include print awareness, phonemic/phonological awareness, phonics instruction, decoding and oral reading fluency, and developmental writing. These theoretical backgrounds inform various instructional approaches to early literacy instruction such as constructivism/whole language, balanced literacy program, and guided reading. This course also offers an overview of children’s literature, including an introduction to the genres, notable books and authors, and resources for incorporating children’s literature in literacy education programs. Fieldwork is required.