Unit Overview/Summary - FOCUS:

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:

The focus of this unit is comparing and contrasting fictional stories. During the unit, students will be exposed to multiple stories to compare and contrast the experiences and adventures of the characters. Students will have opportunities to practice retelling the stories (to build on Unit 5, Ready to Retell, and Using Words to Inform), then tell how the events are the same and different. Students will also be prompted to think deeply about the texts, making connections to their own lives. After reading, students can write their opinions about events from the stories that they prefer. Additional time will be spent on learning new vocabulary by acting out nuances between select verbs and adjectives.  

Unit Duration: 

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