Education and Child Study 536 - Mastering Literacy: From Cognitive Science to Practical Application

Mastering Literacy

Fall
2025
01
4.00
Rachel Clark Nicholas

W 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Smith College
EDC-536-01-202601
Seelye 101
rnicholas@smith.edu
Why do so many students struggle with reading—and what can be done about it? This course, designed for current and future teachers, examines the science of reading and its relevance to today’s classrooms. The course bridges cutting-edge research with everyday practice, exploring how reading develops, why it breaks down, and how structured literacy can close persistent gaps. Grounded in cognitive and linguistic theory, and aligned with Massachusetts DESE standards, the course prepares educators to use evidence-based models—like Scarborough’s Rope and the Simple View of Reading—to design responsive instruction. Students learn to interpret data, support students with dyslexia, and build literacy environments that are equitable, effective, and inclusive. Restrictions: Seniors and EDC M.A.T. students only. (E)

[CE] SR/M.A.T. only

Permission is required for interchange registration during the add/drop period only.
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