& Student Handbook - Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

186 Master Degree Programs
Master of Arts in Literacy Education/
K-12 Reading Course Descriptions
EDRD600
Foundations of Reading (3 cr.)
This course explores the theoretical and scientific underpinnings of
literacy development as a basis for developing effective K-12 reading
programs. Major topics include knowledge of the relationships between
spoken and written language, the historical evolution of English,
processes of reading, motivational aspects, stages of reading, spelling,
and writing development, and major historical and current instructional
approaches and programs for literacy development.Qualitative and
quantitative research regarding literacy acquisition and applications to
designing balanced reading programs are addressed.
EDRD601
Elementary Reading Instruction: K-6 (2 cr.)
Drawing on the conceptual framework for understanding literacy
processes, stages, and major instructional approaches developed in
EDRD 600, this course features instructional techniques, materials, and
programs that have been validated as effective for developing competent
and joyful readers and writers in grades K-6. The focus is on creating a
differentiated literacy program that incorporates the strengths of a whole
language approach and the findings of the National Reading Panel.
EDRD602
Secondary Reading Instruction: 7-12 (2 cr.)
This course focuses on literacy development in the middle and high
school years, with the goal of promoting reading for learning,
understanding, and enjoyment. Topics include assessment of students’
reading and written language skills, the cognitive and skill levels required
by various content area materials and written tests, use of alternative
testing strategies, and instructional strategies for developing strategic
readers and competent writers in all content areas. Collaboration with
content area teachers to adapt course materials, teaching strategies, and
assessment practices for students with exceptional educational needs,
such as learning disabilities and gifted/talented, are also featured.
EDRD603
Reading Instruction for Linguistically and Culturally Diverse
Learners (2 cr.)
This course focuses on the concepts and skills needed to develop literacy
programs for students who differ in how they acquire literacy because of
language, learning, and/or cultural differences. Three major strands are
featured: (1) selection and teaching of literature that reflects the diversity of
American classrooms and promotes global understanding; ( 2) fostering
literacy in children who come from non-mainstream cultures; and (3) literacy
for English Language Learners (ELL/ESL) and for those with special learning
characteristics, for example, gifted and talented. Gender differences in literacy
acquisition are also explored.
EDRD604
Diagnosis and Remediation of Reading Difficulties (3 cr.)
This course focuses on the concepts and skills needed to identify and
successfully remdiate reading and written language difficulties in all
struggling readers, including those served in Title One and LD programs,
English Language Learners with literacy delays, and competent readers
who have lost motivation to read and write well. Concepts related to test
construction, selection, and ministration are explored through a case
study approach. Uses of group and individual standardized and informal
literacy measurements are featured.
EDRD605
Clinical Reading Practicum (3 cr.)
After assessing the literacy skills and needs of three students—one each
at elementary, middle, and high school levels—candidates for the
licensure design and carry out individualized intervention programs. The
course includes 45 hours of student contact, class sessions, and weekly
online participation via Blackboard.
EDRD606
Development and Supervision of Reading Programs (2 cr.)
This course focuses on the skills needed to design and supervise K-12
reading programs, including selection of curriculum, assessment
procedures, instructional materials, and budget development.
Interpretation of district results on state-mandated reading tests and
development of a district plan are featured. This course also includes
coaching strategies for collaboration with classroom and content area
teachers.
EDRD607
Theoretical Models and Processes of Reading (3 cr.)
This course explores the theoretical models and research that inform
contemporary understandings of reading development across the
lifespan. Exploration and critical review of research in areas of interest
(e.g., literacy policy, language and cognition in sociocultural contexts,
foundations for literacy development, comprehension development,
motivation and engagement, and instructional effects on literacy
development) are featured. Implications for curriculum development are
emphasized.
EDRD608
Theory and Research in Writing (3 cr.)
The theoretical and research base for current trends in writing instruction in
K-12 and post-secondary schools are explored. Topics of study include
spelling, grammar, and composition across the lifespan. Student choice in
completing a review of the research literature in an area of interest is
featured.
EDRD609
Explorations in Children’s Literature (1 cr.)
This course is designed for candidates who wish to increase their
familiarity with genres of children’s literature, examples of classical and
contemporary children’s books, and instructional strategies for building a
quality literature program at the preschool through sixth grade levels. The
course culminates in development of a bibliographic portfolio that
includes curriculum applications for literary selections read.
EDRD610
Explorations in Adolescent Literature (1 cr.)
This course is designed for candidates who wish to explore the genres of
literature for adolescents and young adults. Genre selections within
adolescent/young adult literature and criteria for developing a quality
literature program are featured. The course culminates in development of a
bibliographic portfolio that includes curriculum applications for works cited.
EDRD611
Leadership Practicum in Literacy Education (3 cr.)
This course is centered on a student-designed practicum in an
educational setting that includes individual peer coaching and
professional development to groups of teachers and/or service providers
in the field of literacy development. The course consists of class
meetings and online facilitated discussions via Blackboard.