Instructor: Dr. Patricia Shinn Wojtowicz

Course: Children’s Literature

Course Description: This course is designed to provide students with a foundation in children’s literature and literacy processes and to develop and deepen students’ appreciation of children’s literature as a legitimate literary form by surveying the multifaceted world of children’s books. Throughout the course, concepts and strategies will be highlighted that help to cultivate children’s love of and response to literature. Children’s literature will be presented within the context of developing literacy and encouraging the integration of literature across the curriculum.
Number of Students: 36

Student Profile: Most students taking this course are studying to become teachers at the preschool or early elementary level. Some will become teachers aides, others will continue their education and obtain state teacher certification at a four-year institution.

Project Title: Thematic Children’s Book

Project Description: Students will write, illustrate, and “publish” an original children’s book related to the theme of “Homeland Security/Helping Children to Feel Safe in our World Today.” The book will be one that could be shared with children in grades K, 1, 2, or 3 and help them to deal with issues of safety and/or feeling safe. In the course, various techniques, ideas, and literary elements are covered and will be incorporated into each book. Each thematic book should represent a clear understanding of the important elements of a good piece of children's literature. Students will choose various mediums to illustrate and enrich their stories. Books will be shared during class and, with student permission, with a wider audience on the SAFE Project website.

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