2011-2012 VRI Course Offerings
Exploring Literacy Instruction K-2
Credits: 3
Instructor: Nancy Woods and Pat Gallant
Location: VRI at UVM, 250 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602
Dates: October 13, December 1, February 6, May 18
Course Description:
This course is designed for teams of K-2 teachers interested in collaborating to provide effective literacy instruction K-2. Participants will learn to implement a framework for reading instruction that integrates the components of a comprehensive literacy program. In addition to four full day sessions and one on-site visit from the instructor, teachers will participate in on-line class discussion and reflection, peer observation and debriefing, and make a video of an observation and debriefing session.
Goals:
- Identify and implement a framework for reading instruction in K-2
- Integrate the 5 components of literacy (phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension) with a K-2 framework in alignment with the VT GLES
- Practice protocols for peer observation and debriefing in order to collaborate with colleagues to support knowledge of and expertise in literacy instruction
- Reflect and adjust teaching practices according to instructor and peer feedback
- Use assessment to inform instruction
- Demonstrate new learning in classroom literacy instruction
Participants will gain an understanding of the components of a comprehensive literacy block and research-based effective instructional practices for teaching reading and writing. They will be able to implement effective comprehensive literacy instruction based on grade level expectations and a gradual release of responsibility framework. Participants will have a system in place in their school with protocols for observing and collaborating with a team of peers to improve literacy instruction. Teachers will competently use assessment to inform them of student learning needs in order to adjust instruction.
Cost: $800 (3 graduate credits from UVM)
To register, call Ellie Rodriguez at 802.828.0520 or email Elizabeth at rodriguez@uvm.edu.
Introduction to Adolescent Literacy and Learning through Action Research
Credits: 3
Instructor: Alysia Backman
Location: Online
Course Description:
This course is designed to provide educators with the literacy knowledge, expertise, and support needed to engage in change at the individual classroom level through the focus of Action Research. Participants will work on researching a focus and developing a plan for implementing change in their classroom. Literacy and learning focus areas for this course are metacognition, engagement with text, opportunity to write, and multiliteracies.
Learning Outcomes:
- Educators will come away with a clear understanding of who the adolescent learner is and how this impacts teaching and learning.
- Educators will have an understanding of the elements that need to exist in a literacy-rich classroom environment.
- Educators will understand that literacy is an important component of all content area instruction.
Cost: $825 (3 graduate credits from UVM)
To register, call Ellie Rodriguez at 802.828.0520 or email Elizabeth at rodriguez@uvm.edu.
