Language Acquisition / 3 Credit (LA I, LA II & LA III)
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This course focuses on the structure of the English language, grammar and pronunciation, including phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. It gives participants the knowledge and skills to assist ELLs in the process of first and second language acquisition including developmental issues in verbal and nonverbal language and vocabulary development. Teachers will learn their skills to increase language acquisition including error analysis, discourse analysis, knowledge of language proficiency levels and their application to instruction, and the current research on academic language. Finally, participants will develop knowledge of the process of literacy development for second language learners and strategies to assist ELLs in the different stages of second language usage.
Instructional Materials / 3 Credit (IM I, IM II & IM III)
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This course focuses on the design and implementation of ESL programs that will assist ELLS in acquiring English and cognitive academic language skills. It will include the development and evaluation of teaching resources, as they are appropriate for various language proficiency levels, native language development, and literacy. The course will also explore the research related to effective instruction for ELL students and the specific instructional strategies and methods that can help students be successful learners. Finally, this course will address the need for adaptations and modifications for ELLs in the regular classroom and include information on instructional strategies that support acculturation, multicultural resources, strategies for adaptations, procedures, and assessments to maximize second language acquisition.
Assessment & Support / 3 Credit (AS I, AS II & AS III)
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This course will address effective assessment practices, purposes for assessment, multiple assessment models, evaluation techniques, scaffolding assessments, and formal/informal assessment tools. Participants will be engaged in test administration, interpretation, and reporting. It also focuses on assessment of ELLs in content learning and the availability of school support services to assist these students in language acquisition and content learning. Finally, this course gives participants strategies to promote parent and family involvement in the learning process and procedural knowledge regarding special education services and IEPs for identified ELLs.
Cultural Diversity in the K-12 Classroom / 3 Credit (CD I & CD II)
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This course focuses on deepening school staff's understanding about other cultures. It is based upon knowledge of behaviors, beliefs, and attitudes of a multicultural approach to learning. It includes cultural awareness activities for promoting school staff understanding about other cultures in comparison to the American culture and strategies for working with English Language Learners. In addition, this course provides participants with in-depth knowledge of current methods and techniques in working with culturally and linguistically diverse students and their families. Participants will deepen their understanding of various teaching approaches that promote equity among linguistically and culturally diverse populations.