Introduction
Participants explore how to establish a literature-centered reading and writing classroom using mentor texts and The PLN Frameworks. Through discussion, modeling, and analysis, they examine how students engage with texts—focusing on author’s craft, structure, genre, and meaning-making—to strengthen reading and writing skills.
The course emphasizes close and responsive reading practices, student choice, and strategies that promote motivation, independence, and deep comprehension. Participants explore how to make thinking visible through questioning, discussion, and scaffolding, framing close reading as a habit of mind rather than an added task.
Educators leave with practical strategies for integrating reading, writing, and discussion across content areas, using mentor texts to support engagement, critical thinking, and authentic literacy learning.
Program Details
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4.5 CEs University of Pennsylvania Continuing Education Credits
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135 ACT 48 Credit Hours
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May 2027 Grades will be awarded
Wednesday, January 20, 2027 - Tuesday, May 4, 2027
The course is structured in two complementary components: self-paced asynchronous learning and live online engagement to provide both flexibility and meaningful opportunities for connection and support.
Self-Paced Component:
Participants will engage in a flexible, largely asynchronous learning experience designed to fit within busy summer schedules. The modules will open on Wednesday, January 20, 2026. Participants may complete the modules at their own pace throughout the course timeline listed below.
Asynchronous learning activities may include engaging readings, recorded mini-lectures, videos, peer discussion boards, practical real-world applications, reflective activities, and additional course resources. Participants should anticipate spending approximately two hours per module on asynchronous coursework, not including readings or course assignments.
Coursework is asynchronous with 4 due dates during the course:
- Modules 1-3- submit by Tuesday, February 9, 2027
- Modules 4-6- submit by Tuesday, March 9, 2027
- Modules 7-9- submit by Tuesday, April 6, 2027
- Modules 10-12- submit by Tuesday, May 4, 2027
Live Online Component:
The course will include two required live Zoom sessions and one optional session throughout the program. The required kickoff session on Wednesday, January 20, from 7:00 - 9:00 PM EST will introduce the course, establish expectations, and prepare participants for the learning experience. An optional check-in and Q&A session will be held on Tuesday, March 2, 2027 at 7:00 - 9:00 PM EST. This session will be recorded and posted for participants who are unable to attend live. The course will conclude with a required final session on Tuesday, May 4, 2027 from 7:00 – 9:00 PM EST, providing an opportunity for participants to reflect on their learning and synthesize key concepts.
In addition, office hours will be available throughout the course by appointment.
Schedule:
| Date | Time (EST) |
|---|---|
| January 20, 2027 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM EST |
| March 2, 2027 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM EST |
| May 4, 2027 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM EST |
Module 1: Foundations of Learning: Learning and the PLN Frameworks
Module 2: Literature Centered Classrooms and the Power of Mentor Texts
Module 3: Meaning-making and Deepening Comprehension through Talk
Module 4: Close Reading and Annotation
Module 5: Examining Author’s Craft: Narrative Text
Module 6: Examining Author’s Craft: Informational Text
Module 7: Discussion as a Tool for Meaning-Making
Module 8: Scaffolding and Differentiation
Module 9: From Reading to Writing
Module 10: Student Identity, Choice, and Motivation
Module 11: Book Art and Visual Meaning-Making
Module 12: Synthesis, Implementation, and Celebration
Take the Next Step
Simply click the Register Now button to create an account and submit an application. Or if you need help creating an account watch our video.