To support literacy and language learning across the content areas and support deeper knowledge building in the content area, throughout this curriculum map, you will see high-quality texts from both the textbook(s) and external/supplemental texts to ensure students are reading appropriately complex, worthwhile material. These texts have been evaluated by district staff to ensure that they meet criteria for text complexity--Quantitative, Qualitative, and Reader & Task Factors. Lexile levels are listed on the Curriculum Maps. Additionally, qualitative evidence is provided in the textbooks for anchor texts and should be used to inform planning. In order to plan effective lessons that allow students to do the majority of the thinking, teachers should employ strategies found in our comprehensive plan for improving literacy and learning. Our plan advises that during the literacy block, teachers should use the following times: Whole-Group Instruction (estimated time 20-25 minutes)-This time is used to engage all students in grade level information at the same time. The purpose of whole group is to introduce and/or reinforce new knowledge, skills, or concepts; this often includes teacher modeling and practice. Small-Group Instruction (estimated time 45-60 minutes)- During this time, students engage in either teacher-led small group or student workstations. Small group instruction is a time to solidify the concepts learned in the whole group setting. This time allows the teacher to support students in a differentiated manner, and allows students to practice new skills and build on skills learned previously. Closure (estimated time 5-10 minutes)-This time should be used to bring closure to the day’s lesson. This may include a quick assessment of students’ learning. The above represents guidelines, but professional judgment should always be used when planning and instructing.
To support literacy and language learning across the content areas and support deeper knowledge building in the content area, throughout this curriculum map, you will see high-quality texts from both the textbook(s) and external/supplemental texts to ensure students are reading appropriately complex, worthwhile material. These texts have been evaluated by district staff to ensure that they meet criteria for text complexity--Quantitative, Qualitative, and Reader & Task Factors. Lexile levels are listed on the Curriculum Maps. Additionally, qualitative evidence is provided in the textbooks for anchor texts and should be used to inform planning. In order to plan effective lessons that allow students to do the majority of the thinking, teachers should employ strategies found in our comprehensive plan for improving literacy and learning. Our plan advises that during the literacy block, teachers should use the following times: Whole-Group Instruction (estimated time 20-25 minutes)-This time is used to engage all students in grade level information at the same time. The purpose of whole group is to introduce and/or reinforce new knowledge, skills, or concepts; this often includes teacher modeling and practice. Small-Group Instruction (estimated time 45-60 minutes)- During this time, students engage in either teacher-led small group or student workstations. Small group instruction is a time to solidify the concepts learned in the whole group setting. This time allows the teacher to support students in a differentiated manner, and allows students to practice new skills and build on skills learned previously. Closure (estimated time 5-10 minutes)-This time should be used to bring closure to the day’s lesson. This may include a quick assessment of students’ learning. The above represents guidelines, but professional judgment should always be used when planning and instructing.
ELA%20Map%20Gr8%20Q4.docx