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 returns to nonfiction, research topics, and determining similarities and differences between texts. Students will explore how an author supports their reasons and ideas and how familiar vocabulary words can have multiple, content-related meanings. Students will write their informational pieces, and the class will work together to research a topic using focus questions and multiple resources to publish their group research project digitally. 

Unit Duration: 

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