English as a Second Language.

ESL 601 — Linguistics for Teachers. 4 hours.

An introduction to language and linguistics for the K-12 classroom. The course will focus, but not exclusively, on the English language. The ESL candidate will be introduced to the traditional structure of linguistics (phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, language change) and the contextual structure of linguistics (discourse, dialect, variation, language and culture, the politics of language). Such concepts as language and brain development, language acquisition, and second language learning will be presented.

ESL 603 — Theoretical Foundations of Teaching ESL. 3 hours.

A study of the major theories and principles of language learning and teaching. Topics to be covered in this course include: the comparison and contrast of first and second language acquisition, appreciation of individual differences in second language learning, and learners' inter-language and the pragmatic functions of language. Includes a 20 clock-hour practicum in a school setting with bilingual or multilingual students.

ESL 604 — Assessment of the Bilingual Student. 3 hours.

Focuses on a research-based and practical approach to the foundations and characteristics of language assessment. Topics covered include evaluation and structure of assessments; analysis of formal and informal assessments; creation of language assessment instruments for various purposes; using appropriate technology for assessment; and using assessment results for the improvement of teaching. Includes a 20 clock-hour practicum in a school setting with bilingual or multilingual students.

ESL 605 — Methods and Materials for Teaching ESL. 3 hours.

An overview of different methods and techniques used in the teaching of ESL K-12 students. The ESL candidate will develop an understanding of the principles of materials development and the application of their practical use. The candidate will also learn the skills necessary to prepare materials for students in the new language learning environment. Includes a 20 clock-hour practicum in a school setting with bilingual or multilingual students.

ESL 606 — Cross-Cultural Studies for Teaching Limited-English Proficient Students. 3 hours.

Focuses on the study of cultural differences and how they affect communication, both in the ESL classroom and in the speech community. The candidate will gain a greater understanding of the relationship between language and culture. He/she will also learn various methods of incorporating culture into the ESL classroom. Includes a 20 clock-hour practicum in a school setting with bilingual or multilingual students.

ESL 607 — Contemporary Issues in Educating English Language Learners. 3 hours.

The candidate will engage in a socio-cultural and educational examination of learning achievement issues that culturally and linguistically diverse students face in American school communities. The candidate will also examine techniques and strategies to promote collaboration with colleagues and administrators to provide support and a learning environment that embraces differences built upon commonalities. Topics include family literacy, parent communication, models of co-teaching for ESL classrooms, and leadership roles in ESL education. Includes a 20 clock-hour practicum in a school setting with bilingual or multilingual students.