This course consists of 10 modules. Each module will include assigned readings and discussion of those readings. Three major assignments will be required.

1) At the conclusion of Module 4, participants will be asked to submit a lesson plan guide for an illustrator study.

2) At the conclusion of the class participants will submit a final project and present it online. Each participant will choose his/her own topic and method of presentation.

3) The final activity will involve submitting a reflection paper.

And every two weeks a very brief discussion summary must be submitted to the instructor, in the dropbox, reflecting the student's participation during that specific two week period.

Discussion participation, reflection papers, and final project will be evaluated using rubrics created for that specific activity.  The online gradebook will provide a current assessment of each participant's cumulative points as assignments are evaluated and recorded.

TOPICS:

Module 1: Introduction - Getting Acquainted

Module 2: Understanding the Role of Children's Literature

Module 3: Putting Books in the Hands of Young Readers

Module 4: Investigating Children's Book Artists and the Books They Illustrate

Module 5: Folklore and Literary Tales

Module 6: Poetry

Module 7: Fiction and Information Books for Older Readers

Module 8: Multicultural and Ethnic Diversity

Module 9: Final Class Presentation

Module 10: Reflection

Each module is structured around an introduction, readings, discussion, and an activity or reflection/process paper. A final project will be presented by each participant. Optional field trips and guest speakers will be scheduled as opportunities arise. Those special class events will be announced via email announcements and postings on the discussion board.

Participants will:

• participate regularly (minimum of three times a week) in the class discussion with comments/questions relating to each module;
• review and discuss assigned reading materials;
• read books related to the module being discussed and contribute comments/questions about those readings to the online discussions;
• submit written reflection papers at the conclusion of each module;
• create a final project using guidelines presented during the ten content modules.

You will be able to customize readings in the area of children's literature to your specific educational situation and needs.

Class participants are encouraged to find creative ways to share their thoughts and questions related to each module and to collaborate with peers in the class to create outstanding teaching projects.

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• What are some significant ways in which you will now use books in your classroom -- new ideas, new authors/illustrators, new knowledge?
• What were the most valuable concepts/ideas gained during the class?
• What was the most valuable, most fun, or most interesting activity during the class?
• How will the information impact your classroom/library?
• What questions/concerns do you have about the topics?
• Where will you go to answer these questions/concerns?

30% - Satisfactory completion of assignments within each of the content modules

10% - Illustrator Unit (submitted after module 4)

20% - Final Project

5% - Final Reflection paper

35% - Online Discussion (Discussion postings and participation in online activities)

Your projects will be evaluated on your demonstration of standards listed on the module's rubric or checklist.

A -- Exceeds the standard

B -- Proficient demonstration of the standard

I -- Incomplete demonstration of the standard (Work must be resubmitted.)

Evaluation of your discussion participation is cumulative and subjective based on notes that the instructor records each week. E-mail your instructor for help in upgrading your participation in the discussion.

Excellent indicates you participated above the minimum level in both quantity and clarity of communication in your postings. In most of your posts to the mailing list you mention appropriate book titles and authors as well as indicate possible use in working toward success in reaching a particular reading/language arts standards.

Average indicates you met the minimum requirement in terms of number of posts. You sometimes mention appropriate book titles and authors; and sometimes indicate applicable standards.

Below average indicates you consistently contributed below the minimum three messages per week or contributions were merely perfunctory ("I agree with so and so.") or unclear.

Reflections will be evaluated for clarity and your understanding of the readings and activities.

Any time that you want to ask about your progress, send a message directly to your instructor.

Required Textbook:
Norton, Donna E. Through the Eyes of a Child: An Introduction to Children's Literature, Seventh Edition (2006) Pearson-Merrill Prentice Hall. ISBN: 0132202964.

• Purchase from Amazon
  
• Purchase from Barnes and Noble
  
• Purchase through an independent dealer: book sense.

In addition to the textbook, participants will be asked to read widely in the area of children's literature. Specific titles will not be required, but readings on each topic or genre will be required to successfully participate in the class discussion.

Additional recommended articles will be available via the course website.

Orientation Activities
After you are enrolled, complete the orientation activities. Review the Student Expectations and Responsibilities and Academic Expectations and Dishonesty Policy.