Module 01: Learning Theories and Stages of Literacy Development

Introduction

In Module One, you will explore the various learning theories that support literacy instruction.  To be an effective literacy teacher, you must understand the learning theories and their applications to the classroom.  Additionally, Module One will also include the stages of literacy development that students undergo.  Effective teachers understand that children encounter a series of stages in literacy development and how to support each individual literacy learner in each stage. 

Objectives

• Explain the learning theories that support reading and writing development.

• Analyze the stages of literacy development and suggest instructional strategies to support the literacy learner.

Course Resources: 

Module 1 Video Overview

PowerPoint Overview

Resources to Read:

• The Five Educational Learning Theories

• What We Know About Reading and the Brain

Science of Reading:

The Brain Prize Presents: Stanislas Dehaene

Simple View of Reading

Scarborough'a Reading Rope

Ehri's Phases of Word Development

Research Base:

Practice Assignment:

Assignment Title: Looking at Writing Assignment

1. Click the link Looking at Writing.

2. Choose a grade level on the left hand side under the heading: See Writing Samples.

3. Choose a sample to analyze.

4. Move your cursor over the red bubbles to read the observations about the writing sample.

Answer the following questions based on the writing sample:

• What stage of writing is the student in?

• Describe at least two observations you made about the student's writing.

• Explain what you think the child needs to learn next to develop their writing skills.