Literacy

Literacy:

In the fourth and fifth-grade English Language Arts curriculum, a comprehensive workshop model is employed to teach reading and writing, emphasizing genre-based units of study aligned with the New York State Next Generation Learning Standards. The approach is grounded in essential questions and enduring understandings that guide students in exploring various literary genres. Teachers provide direct instruction through read-alouds, whole group mini-lessons, conferring and small group strategy lessons. Each student maintains a readers and writers notebook, fostering the development of critical thinking skills and self-reflection.

Independent reading is a central component, allowing students to engage with books at their level and interest, promoting a love for reading. The assessment of students' reading abilities is multifaceted, incorporating tools such as the Fountas and Pinnell Benchmark Assessment Kit, AIMS Web Plus, unit pre- and post-assessments and daily evaluations of their contributions in discussions, writing and conferences.

Vocabulary development is addressed through the Worldly Wise program, focusing on academic vocabulary to strengthen the link between vocabulary and reading comprehension. The Patterns of Power resource is utilized for grammar instruction, grounding the learning in inquiry, collaboration and conversation. This approach allows students to explore conventions through the lens of the author's purpose and craft, fostering a deeper understanding of language use and application.

Within the writers workshop, students follow a process-oriented approach, encompassing idea generation, drafting, revising, editing and publishing. This iterative process acknowledges that writing development is not linear, with steps revisited multiple times to refine and enhance their work. Explicit lessons on writers' craft are taught and assessed, providing students with a solid foundation in writing skills.

In alignment with the science of reading research, the upper-grade curriculum incorporates evidence-based practices to enhance literacy skills. This approach recognizes the interconnectedness of reading and writing, emphasizing comprehension, critical thinking and the application of language skills in both modalities. The workshop model embraces current research findings to create a dynamic and effective learning environment for fourth and fifth-grade students, preparing them for success in language arts and beyond.

Fourth Grade Units of Study

Reading: narrative, informational, argument/persuasive, fables, poetry, short stories and historical fiction

Writing: narrative, literary response, informational and  persuasive writing

Fifth Grade Units of Study

Reading: narrative, informational, argument/persuasive and fantasy

Writing: narrative, literary response, informational essay and  persuasive writing