READ 594: Young Adult Literature: Gr 5-12 (3 cr)

COURSE
DESCRIPTION

This introductory graduate course introduces teachers to the world of adolescent literature. Theoretical concepts and practical aspects will be explored.

PREREQUISITES

Graduate standing and a willingness to learn about young adult literature.

COURSE
STRUCTURE

This is an online Blackboard course. Learners will complete textbook readings with posted reflections; post to whole class discussion forums; provide feedback to other learners; and complete assignments.

STANDARDS

This course supports the following International Reading Association's 2003 Standards for Reading Professionals:

2.2	Use a wide range of instructional practices, approaches and methods, including technology-based practices, for learners at different stages of development and from differing cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
2.3	Use a wide range of curriculum materials in effective reading instruction for learners at different stages of reading and writing development and from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
4.2	Use a large supply of books, technology-based information, and non-print materials representing multiple levels, broad interests, and cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
4.3	Model reading and writing enthusiastically as valued lifelong activities.

PRACTICAL
APPLICATIONS

Read and discuss text assignments via web-based discussion boards; initiate topics and respond to both instructor and fellow learners;

Review 7-10 young adult books and submit these responses to an online bulletin board for others to utilize;

Report on ways learners have introduced young adult books to adolescents based on what has been learned in the course;

Organize and participate in a book club for young adult books.

CORE/ELECTIVE

This graduate course can be used as 3 elective credits in the Literature thematic area in the 24-credit Reading Endorsement program, the 12-credit Literary Education program, or for individual professional development.

INSTRUCTOR

Sharon Porter, Professor, College of Education, Eastern Oregon University. Thirty-three years of K-12 experience as teacher-librarian, music teacher and a certified reading teacher. (BME, Morehead State University, MA, Northern Kentucky University, MLS, Southern Connecticut State University)

TARGET
AUDIENCE

Teachers of Grades 5-12 interested in learning about young adult literature.

TIME
COMMITMENT

Students should expect to spend 9 hours per week for 10 weeks in course-related activities (e.g., reading the text and course materials, posting to discussion forums, completing written reports/papers and classroom-based assignments). This course is online and does not require in-person attendance. Assignments are completed on the learner's time schedule and are due as posted.

TEXTBOOK

Textbook(s) are required for this course. You will find the textbook listed in the syllabus that is posted online at the EOU website or you may contact the instructor. For most classes, the EOU Bookstore will be a source for the textbook.

COST

No course in the ReadOregon curriculum will cost more than $300 per credit, including all fees, for students in the ReadOregon program.

TECHNICAL
REQUIREMENTS

This online course requires access to the Internet with Word/WordPerfect for written assignments. Recommended minimum computer configuration is:

PC running Windows 95 or newer
Macintosh Quadra 700 or better or Power PC
Modem 28.8 or faster, or other network connection
Sound card and speakers (optional)
32 Megabytes or greater of system RAM
Adequate hard disk drive

CONTACT

For more details on this course, please contact Sharon Porter, Eastern Oregon University.