Unit Overview/Summary

The ELA model units support the implementation of an effective and comprehensive core classroom (Tier I) reading instructional program. It is essential to select and implement instructional practices supported by a body of knowledge derived from scientifically-based reading research. Considering the multidisciplinary research on the science of reading and related instructional components, using evidence-based instructional methods, and learning activities that apply the components of the science of reading (i.e., phonemic awareness, phonics, reading fluency, vocabulary, and listening, reading, and language comprehension) facilitates students’ working knowledge of reading processes and skills. Additional information about foundational reading skills and the sub-skills or prerequisite skills students must acquire to achieve the foundational skills, can be found in the document, Building the Foundation: A Suggested Progression of Sub-skills to Achieve the Reading Standards: Foundational Skills in the Common Core State Standards. This document also contains a variety of instructional examples, organized by foundational skill and grade level.   

Unit Focus:

This unit is designed to provide students with the opportunity to study authors' messages and meanings in nonfiction texts including identifying the main purpose of a text. While reading more than one text on the same topic, students will compare and contrast the most important points presented in the texts. Students will connect their reading with writing by developing informative/explanatory texts in which they introduce a topic, use facts and definitions to develop essential elements, and provide a concluding section or statement.

Unit Duration:

30 days (25 instructional days and 5 reteach/enrichment days); Based on 180 minutes to 240 minutes per day