Earlier this year, OTIS for educators launched a PD micro-credential focused on “The Science of Reading.” This 10-part online course takes just under eight hours to complete. “The Science of Reading” micro-credential PD provides participants with a solid foundation of the tenets of reading instruction. We will delve into each component, critical for understanding the philosophy behind the science of reading.

Topics covered in this online PD include phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. This series features applicable assignments to help teachers put this philosophy into practice.

Online PD Course List

Here is a list of the individual courses included in The Science of Reading PD micro-credential:

Science of Reading – Session 1 – Introduction

In the first session of this online PD micro-credential, we’ll explore the “why” behind the science of reading. Additionally, we will answer the following questions: Where did the science of reading originate? Why are we using it? and how did we get here?. You will leave this online PD session with a clear view of our course track and a strong understanding of the importance of using the science of reading. Be ready to teach all students literacy skills, including older students who are reading below an appropriate grade level.

Science of Reading – Session 2 – Phonemic Awareness: Part 1

Phonemic awareness is a core building block for reading instruction and is necessary for remedial instruction for struggling readers and non-readers. In this online PD session, we will go over important key terms and review the Common Core ELA Standards/grade levels associated with teaching phonemic awareness. Furthermore, we’ll dive into language comprehension, word recognition, letters & phonemes, and blending & segmenting. You will leave this online PD session with a greater understanding of the importance of phonemic awareness and how to ensure students are taught these necessary fundamentals.

Science of Reading – Session 3 – Phonemic Awareness: Part 2

Now that we understand what phonemic awareness is, let’s learn how to assess our students’ knowledge! In this online PD, we will focus on the six primary areas of assessment in phonemic awareness. These include: rhyming, word awareness, syllable awareness, initial sounds, and blending & segmenting. You will walk away from this online PD session with effective tools and strategies for how to assess segmenting skills, phonological awareness, and spelling.

Science of Reading – Session 4 – Phonics Part 1: Alphabetic Principles

This online PD session will continue to build upon our understanding of phonemic awareness by focusing on alphabetic principles. From phonemes to graphemes, we will delve into effective assessment and instructional techniques that are rooted in the alphabetic principle. Discover the importance of letter formation and handwriting in reinforcing alphabetic connections. Additionally, we’ll explore innovative strategies to enhance phonemic awareness.

Science of Reading – Session 5 – Phonics Part 2: Orthography

Let’s dive into orthography (writing and spelling conventions) and the role it has in the science of reading! In online PD session 5, we will review intricate facets of reading and spelling. Guided by EHRI’s Theory, developed by educational psychologist Linnea Ehri, we will delve into the essential process of decoding and encoding. Finally, we’ll explore spelling strategies, word families, and both syllable & multisyllabic words.

Science of Reading – Session 6 – Phonics Part 3: Phonics Assessment

In online PD session 6, you will learn how to assess both alphabetic principles and orthography as part of phonics instruction. We will discover how to conduct student screeners and how to identify & remediate phonological & orthographic error examples. Next, we’ll address how to implement tiered instruction for students to assess their knowledge of word families and spelling patterns.

Science of Reading – Session 7 – Fluency

Elevate your understanding of fluency and how it relates to the science of reading! During session 7, we will dive into the nuances of accuracy and reading speed. Unlock practical strategies that enhance both components. Discover the significance of high-frequency words when fostering fluency & comprehension, and learn how to effectively integrate them into reading instruction. With a focus on curriculum-based measures, you will walk away with practical tools for assessing and monitoring fluency progress.

Science of Reading – Session 8 – Vocabulary

Join us as we delve into all things vocabulary! In online PD session 8, we will cover how to explicitly teach vocabulary. Learn tactics such as: using word tiers, word meaning & dual coding theory, morphology, etymology, and semantic gradients. We’ll discuss the various independent word learning approaches and  word strategies to ensure your students are actively engaged in vocabulary instruction.

Science of Reading – Session 9 – Comprehension

In online PD session 9, we will learn how to teach students comprehension through background knowledge and text structure. We’ll focus on teaching & learning texts, concepts, and transfer of knowledge. Gain effective practices, comprehension teaching tips, and ready-made resources that you can directly implement into your classroom!

Science of Reading – Session 10 – Final Assignment

Congratulations, you have made it to the last session in our “Science of Reading” micro-credential series!  You’re only one assignment away from earning your certificate. This session is going to give you all the tips, tricks, and details you need to succeed! In this final session, we will do a brief review of what we’ve covered, provide you with an example final assignment, and give you a detailed look at the rubric.

For a complete list of our online PD micro-credentials, visit the “Micro-credentialing” section on OTIS for educators! Discover all professional development opportunities, project-based learning experiences, and STEM products at Teq.com! 

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