EDU 37503 - Middle Childhood Integrated Language Arts Methods

Curricular applications of nature and needs of young adolescents (grades 4-9) studied via the Ohio Language Arts Academic Content Standards. Candidates study language acquisition and development, the place of English grammar in the curriculum, dialects and levels of usage, various purposes of language, the effective practice of culturally diverse literature as a teaching tool, oral and written discourse, purposeful writing, and the impact of print and non-print media on cultural understanding. Technology applications are an integral part of course. Multiple intelligences, learning styles, diversity enriched curricula free of stereotyping, active learning, special projects, service/community activities, and constructivist learning are applied to teaching middle childhood students. Critical thinking, problem solving, and performance skills for middle childhood learners are seriously pursued. Best practices for inclusion are requirements for instructional activities. Integrated studies across middle grades curricula are emphasized as the Ohio Academic Content Standards provide a framework for instructional planning. Language/ literacy and humanities are utilized as frameworks for meaningful thematic, cross-curricular studies. Formal and informal assessment strategies explored. Required field experience takes place in a middle school setting that supports the principles of the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE). Activities must include observation, participation, and teaching (individual students, small groups, and large groups). Teacher candidate self-reflection on best practices is required. Portfolio reflection on best practices in teaching young adolescents is required. A fifteen-hour

Offered: Spring

Semester Hours: 3