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Education

Developing Literacy Expertise Through Responsive Classroom Teaching

Graduate certificate, online program

Build your students’ literacy and language skills.

Develop your expertise in the systematic observation and assessment of K-8 reading, writing, and language behaviors. Learn to use responsive teaching that incorporates differentiated instruction for whole group, small group, and individual learning. Create an inclusive classroom environment through a focus on language and literacy development. This program gives you the skills you need to assess students, plan for instruction, and become a content expert.

Our curriculum is based on the latest theories of literacy learning based on reading, writing, and talking as complex thinking processes. You’ll learn to take an integrated approach to teaching literacy across several contexts in the K-8 classroom. You can also choose from a variety of rigorous elective courses that help you refine your education and study topics that are most relevant to your career as an educator. Topics include:

  • Assessment
  • Guided reading
  • Intentional teaching
  • Phonics
  • Vocabulary
  • Spelling

Help your students develop strong literacy skills as you cultivate a community of learners who learn collaboratively and think critically.

Online Graduate Program Inquiry Form

Program Structure

100% Online

18 Credits, Accelerated 8-Week Terms
  • Program Prerequisites
    • Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university.

      You'll need to be teaching in a classroom or have access to students in order to successfully complete the coursework.
  • Required Courses 6 Credits
    • Linking Assessment to Teaching: Reading, Writing, and Word Study (K-8)
      Thinking, Talking, and Writing about Texts (K-8)
  • Electives (Choose 4) 12 Credits
    • Guided Reading in a Comprehensive Early Literacy Program (K-2)
      Intentional Teaching in a Readers’ Workshop (K-2)
      Intentional Teaching in a Writers’ Workshop (K-2)
      Phonics, Vocabulary, and Spelling in the Reading/Writing Classroom (K-3)
      Guided Reading: Differentiating Literacy Instruction (3-8)
      Intentional Teaching in a Readers’ Workshop (3-8)
      Intentional Teaching in a Writers’ Workshop (3-8)
      Word Study: Teaching Phonics, Spelling, and Vocabulary (3-8)
  • Approximate Time to Complete
    • Part-time example: 3 credits/8-week term for 6 terms (3 semesters, including summer); complete in 1 year.

      Work with your online advisor to make sure your timeline stays on track.
View Program of Study
What are the benefits of an online certificate program?

When you earn your certificate online, you have the flexibility to study when and where you want. You’ll learn in a virtual community that supports you, with interactive elements like chats and discussion forums that keep you connected. With access to the latest online learning tools and educational resources, you can be sure you’re getting everything a Lesley education has to offer.

Events

Wednesday, Apr 17 11:00 pm
Double Lynx Scholarship Celebration
Monday, Apr 22 4:00 pm
Decoding the Teacher License in Massachusetts, April Session
Wednesday, May 8 4:00 pm
Master of Education (M.Ed) Virtual Information Session
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Introduction to Flipped Learning

Teachers who can successfully incorporate technology-based approaches like flipped learning into their classrooms are at the forefront of modern education.
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Remote Learning at Lesley University
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5E Model Explained

Teachers who can incorporate instructional models like the 5E Model into their classrooms help students build a strong foundation of knowledge through active participation.
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STEAM Learning in Action

Education experts are finding creative ways to innovate in the classroom by incorporating the arts along with traditional STEM subjects.
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Alumni Satisfaction
Ranked #20

by alumni

According to a survey published in Forbes, Lesley ranks #20 nationwide for providing a high-quality education that is worth the cost.
View the survey results.
Licensure Information

Lesley University cannot confirm whether the course or program of study will meet the educational requirements for licensure or certification in any state other than Massachusetts. We advise all applicants and students to determine whether the program meets requirements for licensure or certification in the state in which they reside or plan to practice.

Careers
Where our graduates work
Lesley students go on to rewarding careers in a range of settings throughout Massachusetts and New England, including:
  • Public school districts
  • Daycares
  • Early childhood centers
  • Charter schools
  • Independent schools
  • Private schools
Graduate TESOL/ESL, Literacy, and Reading Specialist Programs
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Literacy

*Fully online programs.

Reading Specialist

Faculty

Cindy Downend
Cynthia Downend
Assistant Director, Primary Programs
Cindy Downend

Cynthia Downend

Assistant Director, Primary Programs

Cynthia Downend has worked at the Center for Reading Recovery and Literacy Collaborative for over 10 years, serving in the roles of primary level literacy trainer and currently as the assistant director for primary literacy programs.

Cynthia has worked with many school districts across the United States to train and develop district level literacy staff developers, literacy coaches, classroom teachers, literacy interventionists and school administrators on a variety of topics related to improving literacy instruction.

Prior to her work at Lesley University, Cynthia held positions as a literacy coach, Reading Recovery teacher, and classroom teacher for over 20 years working in a variety of school settings including urban, suburban, and international schools.

Cynthia holds licenses in both elementary education and school administration, and achieved National Board Certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.

Read Full Bio
Total approximate cost for this certificate program.
Developing Literacy Expertise Through Responsive Classroom Teaching
Estimated Cost

All graduate students are reviewed for merit scholarships through the admissions process and are awarded at the time of acceptance. Other forms of financial aid are also available. Review all graduate tuition and fees, and what they cover. Tuition and fees are subject to change each year, effective in the Summer term.

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Ready to get started? We're here to make the application process as smooth as possible. Just answer a few quick questions, and get your customized application guide.

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View Full Program Cost
Total approximate cost for this certificate program. Tuition and fees are for the 2023-2024 academic year.
Financial Aid
We are committed to providing you with opportunities to support your academic goals. Federal aid and a variety of other options can help make your education more affordable.

Next steps to apply

Ready to get started? We're here to make the application process as smooth as possible. Just answer a few quick questions, and get your customized application guide.

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617.868.9600