The focus of this course is on the literacy development of children in pre-K to grade 3. The course covers the developmental process of literacy acquisition and the use of appropriate methods, models, and strategies for encouraging literacy growth. Early literacy concepts of phonemic awareness, word identification, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension are examined. Additionally, language differences, cultural and linguistic diversity, and language delays are addressed. The role of parents, community, and assessment tools are explored. Additional emphasis is placed on the effects of poverty, culture, diversity, nutrition, language development, and hearing issues. This course is restricted to students in the professional degree completion program.