ABSTRACT
In the portion of the course, graduate teachers work with a teaching partner, share the teaching of the five literacy events within each of three reading cycles, writing workshop, and collaborate on the creation of lesson plans. Although the majority of the semester takes place at the school, another significant aspect of the course is the daily seminars. Prior to the start of the practicum experience, the seminars encompass the entire three hours of class. There is a distinct feature of the course that links professional development to literacy coaching. Teachers determine 3–4 words unknown to the students and of significance to the overall comprehension of the text. There is a required practicum component for those seeking B-12 or 5–12 certification. This is considered the capstone practicum experience where graduate students are required to complete twenty-five practicum hours working with middle school students.
