Literacy Unlocked
FWISD K-12 Literacy - November 2021
The Current State of Reading
The Science of Teaching Reading & Balanced LiteracyWhat is the science of reading and how does it interact with the practice of balanced literacy? How can it improve our practice so that kids become better readers? Click here for full article. | At a Loss for Words For decades, schools have taught children the strategies of struggling readers, using a theory about reading that cognitive scientists have repeatedly debunked. How do we increase awareness? Click here for full article. | Will STR really change instruction? A slow but significant change has been taking place in the early reading world over the past year. See Lucy Calkins and Jennifer Serravallo's perspectives about those making shifts. Click here for full article. |
The Science of Teaching Reading & Balanced Literacy
What is the science of reading and how does it interact with the practice of balanced literacy? How can it improve our practice so that kids become better readers?
Click here for full article.At a Loss for Words
Will STR really change instruction?
Click and discover our approach to effective literacy instruction.
Curriculum Corner
3 Big Rocks
- Lean into the "3 Big Shifts" in literacy instruction and explore the how to effectively plan Tier 1 Core instruction utilizing district resources.
- Examine the alignment of literacy best practices (content and pedagogy) to accelerate student learning.
- Use data to guide instructional decision-making and ensure equitable access for high levels of student achievement for ALL students.
Elementary (K-5)
Elementary Reading Strategies We know that learning how to read is essential and students must be able to close read, annotate, and comprehend assignments and texts across all subjects. Edutopia consulted the research to arrive at a list of strategies that could develop strong reading skills and confidence for all students—including struggling readers.
Middle School (6-8)
Unorthodox Literacy Assessment Can you believe that a bathroom log helped one middle school understand its literacy issues? Educators with a laser-focus on developing meaningful relationships can actually deter the evasive behavior and hopelessness caused by the embarrassment of being a struggling reader. Schools must explore methods that not only give students a way to get unstuck, but that also cultivate student ownership of learning.
High School (9-12)
The Science of Reading Comprehension Much of the discourse around the Science of Reading is focused on the importance of explicit instruction for phonemic awareness, phonics and fluency. Before students can comprehend what they read, they must have foundational word-reading skills. However, the relationship between word-reading instruction and reading comprehension instruction might just be more synergistic than competitive.

Why is Professional Learning Important?
Professional Learning
Effective professional development builds the knowledge, skills and qualities of teachers to improve the outcomes of their students. When teachers practice and apply new learning, their enhanced knowledge and skills improves their teaching which then enhances their students' outcomes. Participants should select courses that increase teacher efficacy and are directly-aligned to student achievement (and not solely on "flex credit" compliance).
The Literacy Department stands ready and willing to assist, guide, and support.
Click to share the blessings you have encountered this school year.