This course examines curriculum, the teaching-learning process, and instructional strategies appropriate to the elementary, middle or secondary level. A study of effective methods to teach beginning reading and literacy skills. The course allows teachers to explore the rationale for integrating the curriculum, and provides models of curriculum integration, and practice in creating integrated instructional units and activities. Focus is on the skills and strategies for teaching reading and writing through the content areas, with emphasis on reading comprehension, vocabulary development, study skills, and expository writing.
Students learn to view curriculum development in terms of rigorous academic content.
They practice calibration of curriculum design to the Virginia Standards of Learning, the national standards, and higher levels of thinking and articulation. Course topics are selected on the basis of faculty and student interests. Culminating course for students in the last semester of degree completion of the MAT Mathematics and Science degree program. The course will meet in seminar format to discuss individual research issues and prepare for a culminating presentation of the student's final thesis or project. This culminating course for students in the MAT Language Arts degree program provides an opportunity to complete a Master Portfolio Project developed throughout the MAT Program.