Dowling Education students participating in the Literacy Program at Brentwood North Middle School recently celebrated the completion of the latest session. During the celebration, Brentwood students come together and share their literacy accomplishments with one another often presenting a book they have written or a favorite book they have read. Family members and friends are invited to share in the celebration.

At the Dowling College Literacy Center, graduate students who are pursuing a Master's Degree in Literacy provide assessment and instructional services to Brentwood students who have not made satisfactory progress in reading and writing. The 14-week program is offered on Saturday mornings at the Brentwood North Middle School during the fall and spring semesters. There is no charge for these services.

Sessions

Brentwood students are scheduled for a one-hour individual instructional session and a one-hour small group writing workshop session each Saturday. A literacy assessment is first conducted in order to determine each student's ability in word recognition, reading and listening comprehension, and written expression. An individualized instructional program is then designed which incorporates each student's strengths and needs. Whenever possible, reading and writing activities are based on the student's interests to ensure student involvement. Computer technology is also available to facilitate the student's reading and writing.

Seminar

The graduate students also participate in a discussion group/seminar each week, directed by a faculty member and assisted by the literacy supervisors. Topics addressed during the discussion group/seminar include the following: (a) informal and formal literacy assessment, (b) instructional techniques/strategies for individual and small group settings, (c) report writing, and (d) literacy recommendations. In addition, the professor and supervisors meet with the graduate students to assist them with their weekly literacy plans and to review all course requirements.

Literacy Celebration

The final Saturday of each semester concludes with a Literacy Celebration. During the "celebration," Brentwood students come together and share their literacy accomplishments with one another often presenting a book they have written or a favorite book they have read. Family members and friends are invited to share in the celebration.