English as a Second Language (ESL) Certificate Program

CSD 415/515 ELL: Basics of Language and Communication
CSD 420/520 ELL: Developing Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity
CSD 425/525 ELL: Assessment and Support Services for ELLs
CSD 497/597 ELL: Field Experience and Professionalism
CSD 432/532 Communication/Educational Strategies for ELL Individuals

CSD 415/515 ELL: Basics of Language and Communication (3 credits): This course is intended for educators and speech-language pathologists who support ELLs in educational settings. Content focuses on knowledge of English usage and developing linguistic awareness. Students acquire knowledge of the components of English language, including semantics, morphology, syntax, phonology and pragmatics. The process of first and second language acquisition is presented. This course is designed to meet the ESL Program Specialist certification for English usage and developing linguistic awareness.

CSD 420/520 ELL: Developing Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity (3 credits): This course is intended for educators and speech-language pathologists who support English Language Learners (ELLs) in educational settings. Students will acquire knowledge and skills in working with culturally and linguistically diverse students and families. Course content will focus on behaviors, beliefs, values and attitudes of ELLs and their families. Strategies for promoting cultural awareness and sensitivity within educational and community settings will be discussed. This course is designed to meet the ESL Program Specialist certification for developing cultural awareness/sensitivity.

CSD 425/525 ELL: Assessment and Support Services for ELLs (3 credits): This course is intended for educators including speech-language pathologists who support English Language Learners (ELLs) in educational settings. Students will acquire knowledge and skills in designing and implementing assessment practices and support services for ELLs. Course content will focus on assessment practices, models, evaluation techniques, and assessment tools for language learning and academic achievement. Individualized Education Plans for ELLs and parent and family involvement will be discussed. This course is designed to meet the ESL Program Specialist certification for language and support services knowledge.

CSD 432/532 Communication/Educational Strategies for ELL Individuals (3 credits): This course is designed for educators including speech-language pathologists of English Language Learners (ELLs). Participants will be able to identify, design and implement ESL program materials to facilitate English proficiency and academic standards. Instructional materials and strategies will be based on educational and language learning theory to develop appropriate methodology to use with children at diverse levels of English proficiency. This course is designed to meet the ESL Program Specialist Certificate for instructional materials/development.

CSD 492/592 ELL: Field Experience and Professionalism (3 credits): This course is designed for educators including speech-language pathologists of English Language Learners (ELLs). Participants will be able to identify, design and implement ESL program materials to facilitate English proficiency and academic standards. Instructional materials and strategies will be based on educational and language learning theory to develop appropriate methodology to use with children at diverse levels of English proficiency. All ESL program Specialist candidates will be required to complete a 60 hour field experience under the guidance and supervision of Pennsylvania certified ELL Specialists. Candidates will divide the amount of time spent completing their field experience in a public school district and ESL clinic at Bloomsburg University.