This bridge course is designed to create the connection between EDCI 529 and EMAT 556. The relationship between the courses includes the examination of research on how children become literate and the implications of research on instructional practice. This course focuses on fluency, vocabulary acquisition, comprehension, and close reading of complex text. This course connects to content in previous literacy-specific courses and develops proficiency in the use of more complex teaching strategies and assessments. Classroom observation and micro-teaching is required. This bridge course incorporates fieldwork that includes an intensive culminating field experience. Action research component.