ELE 585 Methods:Lang Arts/Soc Stud

This course prepares teacher candidates to develop strategies for teaching and integrating the language arts and social studies with other curricular areas in grades 1-6, in accordance with standards posed by NCTE, NCSS and New York State. Instructional approaches addressed include direct and literature-based instruction, inquiry, service learning, and the project approach. Emphasis is on helping diverse learners to develop proficient communication skills across the curriculum, and on working with pupils within the larger context of their families and communities. Topics will include the writing process, critical thinking, problem-solving, concept development, values and moral development. The integration of technology as a teacher resource and as an instructional tool will be covered. Appropriate formal and informal assessment tools will be included within the context of unit and lesson plans. Curriculum modifications for pupils who are English language learners and for pupils with the full range of abilities will be considered in course work and addressed in field experiences. A 12-hour field experience is required. Students must obtain fingerprint clearance prior to beginning field experiences. Prerequisite: ELE 580, EDU 530, or SEC 515. Offered annually. (3 credits)