The Communication Arts & Literature Education (CALE) endorsement will prepare you to teach and engage adolescents in a public or private middle school language arts classroom. This option can be added to the Elementary Education major and will result in a teaching license in Communication Arts and Literature education for grades 5-8. This will also prepare you for further graduate study. Study under professors who integrate a Christian worldview with the profession of teaching.
This endorsement might be the right fit for you if you
- enjoy writing and literature
- are eager to serve
- enjoy working with adolescents
- are interested in a career in education
Why study elementary education at Northwestern?
You’ll learn professional practices to engage children from diverse backgrounds. Our students develop an appreciation for diversity in the classroom. We integrate classroom preparation into every area of teacher education by linking theory to experience. Our small class sizes enable Christian professors to mentor you and encourage your faith to flourish both in and out of the classroom.
Northwestern’s Department of Teacher Education provides four levels of classroom practicum experience
- The first level allows you to find your personal “fit” within the teaching profession.
- The second focuses on developing theory and skills related to diversity.
- The third engages you to apply methodologies within your chosen field by creating, teaching, and evaluation lessons in a school classroom.
- The final level is full-time student teaching in a chosen licensure field.
The Department of Education provides teacher education programs approved by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board. They meet the state standards adopted for licensure programs as defined in state Rule 8710.2000 through 8710.8080. All licensure programs are aligned with the Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (INTASC) standards and the Minnesota Standards of Effective.
What will I learn?
You will develop effective communication skills and be able to teach children in early childhood education programs.
ENG 2217
Writing of Fiction
A study of the techniques of fiction writing and contemporary fiction writers with an emphasis on creating original short stories in a workshop format.
CFD 3207
Adolescent Development and the Middle Level Learner
Attention is given to physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual development. Topics covered include current issues faced by adolescents: social networks, peer relations, sexuality, identity formation, and cultural contexts. The course examines the varying models of middle level education and developmentally appropriate practice for fostering the growth and development of adolescents.
LIT 3255
Young Adult Literature
(PQ: ENG1107 or ENG2205, or concurrently enrolled) This course provides an introduction to contemporary literature for young adults. Extensive reading of young adult literature and critical analysis of its diverse themes are included.
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Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your faith while you earn your degree.
