This course explores the theory and practice of instructional reading, culminating in preparation of a final Portfolio showcasing your development as a reading teacher. Principles of reading instruction are considered from a developmental viewpoint as well as from the perspectives of program planning, assessment, home–school connections, and the importance of learning environment. Approaches to reading instruction are explored in the context of reading theory, with specific focus on practical applications.

Course Learning Expectations

In this course you will have the opportunity to:

• develop an understanding of effective reading instruction and intervention, using a strengths-based approach
• apply principles of reading instruction and reading intervention by using distinct strategies
• work with specific and overall expectations in cross-curricular reading
• explore reading theory and research-based practices
• critically analyze commercial and school-based reading programs
• develop strategies for effective reading intervention
• explore home–school connections for improving reading decoding and comprehension
• design, implement, and assess an instructional reading lesson with consideration for differentiation, inclusion, use of educational technology, and sustainable practices
• use diagnostic reading tools to provide intervention in reading failure, using high-yield evidence-based strategies