Course Descriptions
English Language Learning
MLL 7401
Structure of English Language in ELL
3 credits
This course is designed for educators working with English Language Learners (ELL) in grades K-12. Participants in this course will examine the syntactical structure of the English language and its connections to other languages. Participants will gain knowledge of the ways in which ELL students acquire a syntactical understanding of the English Language in the domains of listening, speaking, reading and writing. An emphasis will be placed on the importance of adapting content area instruction and language for ELL students in order to promote academic language proficiency. This course will demonstrate practical strategies and techniques that educators can use to improve instruction for ELL students in academic content areas
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102
MLL 7402
Second Language Acquisition in ELL
3 credits
This course will provide an overview of language learning processes and their applicability to second language acquisition. Students will become familiar with current research and theory in second language acquisition and develop an awareness of how theoretical implications apply to classroom instruction. Techniques for instruction will include the study of applied linguistics and how students acquire phonemic understanding, including strategies for teaching and testing reading, pronunciation, and vocabulary of American English. This course will emphasize process, sequence, and actual methods and stratagems teachers can use to design and develop effective lesson plans. This course requires placement in a K-12 setting.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102
MLL 7403
Assessment of Second Language Learners
3 credits
This course will examine the educational measurement strategies, instruments and processes that teachers use to assess student learning and English proficiency for Second Language Learners. The emphasis of the class will be on assessment skills and knowledge that can enhance professional practice and promote student learning. Informal and formal assessments, which are used to determine students’ English Proficiency skills, are analyzed in detail. An emphasis is placed on the selection, administration, and interpretation of test results. Accommodation techniques and strategies for second language learners will also be emphasized. Standardized and informal test results are evaluated and analyzed as they relate to student achievement, curriculum development, and instructional improvement. 30 hours of tutoring are required.The ESOL Praxis must be taken and passed.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102, MLL 7406
MLL 7405
Teaching Literacy for ELLs
3 credits
The relationship of literacy skill (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) development and the second language acquisition process is examined. Social and cultural language differences, second language acquisition, developmental stages, metacognitive theory, research-based theory, instructional implications, and practical classroom applications will be emphasized. The process by which the aforementioned factors elucidate and strengthen ELLs’ second language literacy development is linked to instruction. Action research and study of an ELL’s language and literacy development is required in a K-12 setting.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102, MLL 7402
MLL 7406
Methods of Teaching Language Arts/English to Second Language Learners (Grades K-12)
3 credits
During this course, current principles, practices, and methodologies for teaching limited English proficient students will be thoroughly introduced and analyzed. Students will determine which strategies are best for their particular teaching situations. As the course progresses, participants will reference the varying methodologies as well as the newly adopted English Language Proficiency Standards and the Delaware Content Standards to make their own instructional plans and units. Emphasis will be placed on incorporating a variety of teaching strategies and standards while stressing both content skills and language skills. Implications of the No Child Left Behind legislation as well as other federal and state laws governing the rights of English language learners will also be discussed. Six hours of classroom observation and subsequent analysis of the teaching of reading/writing in ELL are required in a K-12 or equivalent setting. Please note that this course is not offered in summer semesters.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102, MLL 7402, MLL 7405