Orientation to graduate education programs and readiness for online learning to be completed during the student’s first semester of enrollment. Expectations related to scholarly writing skills are introduced.

Correlates policies and legislation with historical and contemporary perspectives on cultural and linguistic diversity throughout the United States. Identify characteristics of culturally responsive teachers and culturally inclusive environments. Presents ways in which teachers, who are advocates for students and families, can support the unique strengths and needs of culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) families.

Provides an overview of the history of language teaching and identifies theories and models of first and second language acquisition used to address the specific needs of Emergent Bilinguals (EBs). Presents current research, policy, and legislation related to language learning and teaching. Addresses the identification process of English Learners (ELs) and ways to assess first and second language proficiency.

Examination of approaches, methods, and strategies used to teach English Learners (ELs) in English as a Second Language (ESL), Bilingual, and English as a Foreign Language (EFL) programs. Identify program goals, standards, curriculum, and outcomes. Reviews best practices related to the development and implementation of formative and summative assessments used with culturally and linguistically diverse students (CLDs).

Integrates knowledge, skills, and strategies related to content area instruction and assessments for use with Emergent Bilinguals (EBs) who are learning in Newcomer, Bilingual, Dual Language, ESL, Sheltered and Mainstream settings. Presents information related to SDAIE methods, the CALLA approach and the SIOP Model. Addresses content-based ESL strategies.

Focuses on effective second language teaching which requires that language learning happens in meaningful contexts and that language is used for communicative purposes. Addresses the linguistic areas of phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics and the receptive and productive language skills in both the L1 and L2. Special emphasis is placed on pragmatics, psycholinguistics, and sociolinguistics.

Capstone experience designed to demonstrate synthesis of knowledge, skill, and practice. Includes a 20-hour practicum within an ESL classroom setting to enhance the learned skills and knowledge base under the guidance of a collaborating teacher. Includes philosophy, programming/curriculum, student needs and assets, formative and summative assessment, best practices for teaching English to ESL students, cultural competence, advocacy, policies, and appropriate practices.

*option to complete TESL 642 in place of TESL 640

Develops knowledge, skills, and resources to effectively engage with the families of English Language Learners (ELLs) to leverage the power of home literacy in promoting student academic achievement. Explores the crucial role of home language and cultural practices in literacy development, investigates the impact of family involvement in literacy activities, develops advocacy skills and strategies for building strong home-school partnerships.

*option to complete TESL 642 in place of TESL 640