This course examines cognition and language and the relationships between the two systems. The course presents language as a special form of thinking and communication and as a complex, living, changing system. The course explores relevant theories of cognitive and language development and traces development from infancy to adolescence. The course emphasizes practices that promote specific language and cognitive competencies and explores their utilization in various contents and with learners representing language diversity.

Provides an overview of reading development and foundational skills, including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.

Emphasizes instructional strategies for supporting literacy development in students with unique learning needs, including those with disabilities and English language learners.

Explores the use of formal and informal reading assessments to identify student strengths and needs, guide instructional decision-making, and monitor progress. Emphasizes data-driven planning for students at varying levels of reading development, including those with disabilities.

Focuses on designing and implementing evidence-based reading interventions for students who require intensive support. Includes strategies for addressing persistent difficulties in decoding, fluency, and comprehension within Tier 2 and Tier 3 instructional settings.