Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2024 - EDUC 472 E300

Designs for Learning: Elementary Language Arts (4)

Class Number: 4225

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 6 – Aug 2, 2024: Wed, 4:30–8:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    EDUC 401/402 or corequisite EDUC 403.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Focuses on developing knowledge, skills and strategies to create a rich and stimulating language arts program in the elementary classroom. Issues in reading, writing, speaking and listening will be examined through current theory and teaching practice.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is designed with a focus on developing knowledge, skills and strategies to create a rich, dynamic and responsive Language Arts program in the elementary classroom.  In this course, we will explore what research tells us about best practice in the areas of Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking and Viewing, and how to apply emerging understandings and knowledge in today's diverse classrooms.  There will be an intentional focus on strategies and innovative approaches to support the needs of all learners, alongside the application of foundational concepts and core competencies in the BC Curriculum.  A wholistic and interdisciplinary lens will guide much of the work we will do.

 

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Participants will...

  • Gain a greater understanding of the research regarding best practice in an elementary Language Arts/Literacy program and to apply this knowledge in sociocultural diverse classroom settings
  • Refine the designing of lessons and learning experiences to support students' development in the areas of reading, writing, listening, speaking and viewing with the BC Curriculum and assessment of student individual needs as foundational to decision making
  • Develop an awareness of the importance of motivation, engagement and a supportive environment in the development of literacy skills

Grading

  • Meaningful participation in class through weekly readings and activities and completion of reflective writes 20%
  • Individual Lesson Plan 10%
  • Unit Plan (Individually or in groups) 20%
  • Literacy Portfolio/Toolkit 50%

NOTES:

Students are expected to actively engage in weekly readings and assignments in order to bring their informed perspectives into class activities and discussions, and to participate in self-directed inquiry and research as an ongoing part of professional practice.  There will be no final exam in this course.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Heydon, R., McTavish, M. & Bainbridge, J. (2022). Constructing Meanings: Pedagogies for Literacies K-8 (7th edition). Toronto,Ontario: TopHat/Nelson.

There is a digital version of the 7th edition text which is also acceptable.

Note: 6th edition (ISBN: 978-0-17-658078-0) can be used with the understanding that there may be variance in current research and format of text.


ISBN: 978-1-77412-842-8

Additional article readings and case studies in response to emerging questions and inquiries.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html