M.S.Ed. in Teaching Literacy B-6, Teaching Literacy 5-12 and Teaching Literacy B-12

The programs with a specialization in Teaching Literacy B-6, Teaching Literacy 5-12 and Teaching Literacy B-12 give the initially certified teacher the skills to teach reading, writing, and related language arts to students from early childhood to high school levels.  Both prospective and practicing teachers acquire the skills to become reading specialists, capable of diagnosing and assisting children and adults in overcoming their literacy-related problems.

The programs will prepare graduates to:

Demonstrate knowledge of the fundamental principles of literacy instruction.

  • Demonstrate knowledge of theories of literacy development including emergent literacy, early oral language development, and the relationship of oral to written language.
  • Identify and describe theories and models for teaching students with exceptionalities, diverse learners, and at-risk student.
  • Describe the principles of scientifically-based* reading research to obtain valid knowledge about scientifically-based reading instruction and assessment.
  • Summarize the underlying principles of multi-sensory approaches to language learning emphasizing the structure of language and the study of the dyslexic learner.
  • Use computer-based instruction to enhance reading and writing skills.

* Scientifically based knowledge includes, but is not limited to, results of experimental studies.

Utilize a wide range of instructional practices, approaches, methods and materials to support literacy instruction in the classroom, including, but not limited to, those identified by the National Reading Panel (2000).

  • Demonstrate competencies for teaching phonemic awareness, phonics instruction, and multi-sensory approaches to language learning.
  • Demonstrate the of use reading skills that support accuracy and automaticity in word recognition necessary for reading fluency.
  • Identify reading – writing connections, techniques and strategies that promote children’s active construction of meaning through the use of quality literature
  • Describe and utilize techniques for using content as a subject matter to develop vocabulary and concept development.
  • Demonstrate methods to achieve comprehension with narrative and informational text.
  • Use appropriate grouping options (individual, small group, whole class) for accomplishing specific literacy goals.
  • Design instructional methods, including computer-based practices, for learners at different stages of development and various cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Use a variety of assessment tools and practices to diagnose and prescribe literacy instruction for divergent level students.

  • Demonstrate the ability to identify each assessment instrument, what it measures, and its appropriate use in diagnosis]
  • Conduct parent and client interviews to determine the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive facts affecting literacy learning.
  • Administer, score, and correctly analyze various types of formal and informal assessments and summarize results in case study report.
  • ommunicate the results of assessments to specific individuals (parents, students, caregivers, colleagues, administrators, policymakers, etc.) creating an awareness of the needs of the diverse learners and learners with special needs.

Formulate a plan of instruction, based on diagnostic findings, to remediate or correct the literacy deficiencies of any given student.

  • Create appropriate instruction, and revise as needed, to meet the needs of all students, including those from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
  • Provide literacy recommendations based on the student’s physical, affective and cognitive needs as determined by the results of the evaluations.
  • Create a plan for a learning environment that fosters reading and writing by integrating foundational knowledge, use of instructional practices, use of technology, materials and assessment.

Interpret and apply standards of professional and state organizations.

  • Integrate principles of the International Reading Association and the National Council for Teachers of English for teachers of literacy into classroom literacy instruction.
  • Incorporate the goals of New York English Language Arts Standards into classroom literacy instruction.
  • Use research, best practices, and findings of professional organizations to strengthen and update professional practice.

Department Contact
E. Francine Guastello, Chair and Coordinator
Sullivan Hall 411
(718) 990-1557
guastelf@stjohns.edu

Hours
Monday - Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Friday 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Graduate Admission Information

Queens Campus
The School of Education
Office of Graduate Admissions
(718) 990-2304
graded@stjohns.edu

Staten Island Campus
The School of Education
Graduate Admission Information
(718) 390-4506
gradedstatenisland@stjohns.edu

Manhattan Campus
The School of Education
Graduate Admissions Information
(212) 277-5122
gradedmanhattan@stjohns.edu

Oakdale Location
The School of Education
Graduate Admission Information
(631) 218-7775
faucettl@stjohns.edu

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