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Plymouth State University
MSC 11
17 High Street
Plymouth, NH 03264-1595
Course Descriptions
For a full list of graduate course descriptions, go to our course descriptions page.
Reading and Writing
RL 5014 Reading, Writing, and Literature - 3 credits
This course is designed as an active and reflective experience of reading and process writing. Students will be immersed in literature and process writing as they develop a portfolio of their own work as lifelong readers and writers. They will review theory and practice regarding process writing, writing to learn, and writing across the curriculum. They will work in the format of the reading/writing connection to explore a range of non-print and print genres, including but not limited to fiction, nonfiction, poetry, fantasy, timed writing to a prompt and ulticultural literature. Further topics to be examined in this course are the development of practical classroom applications of creating a literate environment, supporting the reading/writing connection in the classroom, exploration of the question 'what makes good writing', assessment in the reading/writing workshop, the mechanical aspects of writing, and the needs of diverse learners. This course is recommended for students in the Reading and Writing M.Ed. Program and the Reading and Writing Certification Program, as well as for any other students who teach reading and writing in the elementary, middle, and secondary schools.
RL 5110 Research in Reading and Writing - 3 credits
Research in Reading and Writing is an investigation into the significant research theory and principles on the development of reading and writing, the teaching of reading and writing, the assessment of reading and writing, and the implications of this knowledge that enrich our understandings and refine our practices. From historical perspectives to current trends and issues, we will explore the transformation of the reading and writing landscape. In doing so, we will discover what research in reading and writing is; how it is used; the value of reading and writing research; how it is applied to improve practice, understanding, and reflective thought; and its role in determining best institutional practices.
RL 5170 Content Area Literacy - 3 credits
To provide literacy instructors with practical suggestions, approaches, and tools to engage all K-12 students, including adolescents themselves, in focusing on improving student reading, writing, thinking, and listening. A three tiered model will examine the areas of student motivation, integrating literacy and learning, and sustaining literacy development. The final product will be the formation of a differentiated instructional plan in the content area demonstrating the use of strategies presented in the course. Participants will be using their own existing school curricula or be planning to use the strategies with future students. A district wide presentation can be developed from the culmination of all student's artifacts.
RL 5300 Advanced Children's/Young Adult Literature - 3 credits
This advanced literature course will survey prose, poetry and wordless books for school age students. Genres to be discussed include: picture books, traditional literature, modern fantasy, contemporary realistic fiction, historical fiction, multicultural and diversity literature, informational books and biographies. The course is designed to help the educator evaluate and select appropriate literature to develop literature-based reading and language arts programs, as well as choosing literature for content subjects. Students will work cooperatively on research with a current issue novel and independently write and present a novel unit. Summer.
RL 5560 Special Topics in Reading, Writing and the Language Arts - 1-3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The course will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied or as an alternative methodology. A faculty member will coordinate a series of guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor. Offered according to demand.
RL 5710 Advanced Diagnostic Testing and the Improvement of Reading and Writing - 3 credits
Diagnostic and instructional issues presented include: reading and writing development; factors related to reading and writing disabilities; varied approaches to individual diagnosis and proven emergent reading, corrective, standardized tests and authentic assessments currently used in reading and special education programs. Seminars in conjunction with the practicum emphasize peer coaching and the application of current literacy research. May be repeated with the permission of the instructor. Winterim and summer.
RL 5750 Independent Research in Reading and Writing - 1-3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The student will propose a topic, issue or concern to the program advisor for approval.
RL 5760 Linguistic Principles and Methods of Teaching English as a Second or Other Language - 3 credits
In this course, participants will examine the nature of language, language systems and language in context. The focus will be on the relevance of linguistic and sociolinguistic knowledge to teaching languages, the nature of language development, and the theory and practice of various teaching methods for different age groups and classroom situations.
RL 5770 Developing Language & Literacy for Diverse Learners - 3 credits
In this course students will study the foundations of language/literacy processes and instruction. Topics include the psychological, cultural, and linguistic theoretical foundations; current practices, research, and historical developments; reading and writing language development related to their acquisition as well as cultural and linguistic diversity; major components of reading curriculum; major components of writing instruction; reading and writing instructional strategies and curriculum materials. The course will be in an interactive seminar/workshop format with an online component.
RL 5820 Literacy Practicum - 1-3 credits
This practicum focuses on leadership, collaboration and coaching. Discussion of literacy program planning, operation, management, budget, curriculum, and evaluation. Emphasis on the role of the reading and writing specialist as researcher, leader, and change agent. Study of collaborative consultative skills, supervisory skills, staff development services, and community activities. Field-based experiences at the elementary, middle, and high school. This is the capstone course for students in the reading and writing specialist program. Winter and summer.
RL 5830 Practicum in Reading Diagnosis and Remedial Reading - 3 credits
Analysis of the factors contributing to reading disability. Diagnosis, teaching, curriculum planning and use of informal and formal assessments with small groups of readers in K–12 settings and supervised tutorial situations. Discussions with literacy professionals and paraprofessionals, and participation in professional development workshops. Seminars promote reflection on instructional practices and the range of services available for readers across the developmental continuum.
RL 5910 Independent Study in Language Arts and Literacy - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in education through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities. An opportunity for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of education. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.
RL 6120 Connecting Reading, Writing and Mathematics in the Elementary Classroom - 3 credits
This course will focus on the integration of reading and writing with mathematics. Methods and activities for integration will be explored. Students will be involved in a comprehensive study of ways to use reading and writing to strengthen the mathematics curriculum. Students will develop their own integrated unity plan to use in their classroom. Also presented as ED 5100.
