Posted April 30, 2019
In this edition of the Academic Quarterly, we step back in time to Fall 2014 where we first published the following Reading Expert article. We believe the information is still very relevant in light of the current calls for standards-based curriculum and equity for all students. With that in mind, we resurface the article about the California ELA/ELD Framework. This article, written by those involved with developing the Framework, describes its unique features and design to support all students, especially English learners. With the high expectations of the Common Core State Standards and other state standards, it is important to revisit the notion that standards themselves are not a curriculum. The powerful statement in the introduction, “the absence of such efforts to move from the standards themselves to a coherent and sequenced curriculum will hamper many states and local district common core implementation efforts” reminds us again that we need to think beyond loosely designed Units of Study. Instead, we need to think about implementing effective curriculum that teachers do not have to create, but can use as a tool to provide high quality teaching.
The Marvelous Mathematician article focuses on incorporating explicit instructional techniques into both direct instruction math lessons and inquiry-based math lessons.
Finally, the Leadership Corner also steps back into time where we revisit the importance of an effective MTSS plan for secondary students who are struggling. Although an effective, standards-based Tier 1 curriculum is very important, it alone will not be enough for students who are struggling.
To receive future editions of this newsletter via email, add your name to the mailing list.