MCCCD Program Description

Theoretical and Research Foundations of Language and Literacy

Course: EPD270

First Term: 2026 Spring

Lecture 3.0 Credit(s) 3.0 Period(s) 3.0 Load
Subject Type: Academic
Load Formula: S - Standard Load

Description: Focus on scientifically-based research as the foundation for classroom reading instruction. Emphasis on the five major areas of reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Application of techniques for organizing and implementing explicit, systematic instruction in each of these areas, and methods of regularly assessing student’s performance in reading and language arts.

MCCCD Official Course Competencies
1. Identify the stages of reading development. (I) 2. Develop explicit, systematic instruction, and methods of assessing student`s performance in reading and language arts. (I-VI) 3. Examine characteristics of scientifically based reading theory and research. (II) 4. Interpret reliable and valid classroom screening measures to identify students at risk for reading difficulty. (III) 5. Define each of the five constructs of reading instruction: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. (IV) 6. Explain factors that influence reading comprehension. (IV) 7. Examine a range of effective strategies, processes, and techniques for supporting children`s communication development. (IV) 8. Outline strategies that foster the development of word analysis, oral reading fluency, and reading comprehension. (IV) 9. Describe a variety of literacy strategies with students of varying abilities and experiences. (IV) 10. Describe the components of a balanced literacy program. (V) 11. Describe strategies to develop parent-school and school-community support to promote independent reading practice. (VI)
MCCCD Official Course Competencies must be coordinated with the content outline so that each major point in the outline serves one or more competencies. MCCCD faculty retains authority in determining the pedagogical approach, methodology, content sequencing, and assessment metrics for student work. Please see individual course syllabi for additional information, including specific course requirements.

MCCCD Official Course Outline
I. Stages of reading development II. Scientific research on reading III. Reading assessment A. Screening B. Administration and interpretation C. Planning for intervention IV. Teaching strategies A. Phonological awareness B. Word analysis C. Oral reading fluency D. Reading comprehension E. Word study and vocabulary F. Differentiated instruction V. Comprehensive literacy program A. Listening B. Speaking C. Writing D. Reading VI. Support for independent reading practice A. School B. Parent C. Community

MCCCD Governing Board Approval Date: April 22, 2025

All information published is subject to change without notice. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented, but based on the dynamic nature of the curricular process, course and program information is subject to change in order to reflect the most current information available.