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 focuses on the continued exploration of reading and writing for different purposes and the understanding that texts are organized according to purpose. This unit focuses specifically on building (1) an understanding of the elements of fiction and (2) students’ ability to retell stories accurately through both identification of the central message/theme and use of key details. Students will experience active opportunities to practice speaking and writing about reading through an interwoven genre study. This unit continues to develop foundational and language skill competencies as students implement automatic and accurate word recognition strategies, learn how to confirm successes or correct mistakes, and transfer knowledge for fluent reading and writing grade-level material. 

Unit Duration:

20 days (15 instructional days and 5 reteach/enrichment days); Based on 180 minutes to 240 minutes per day