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.
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Regardless of grade level, there are four fundamental things educators must do for their students to experience math success.
1. Apply explicit instructional techniques effectively to both direct and inquiry-based instruction
2. Develop student use and understanding of mathematical vocabulary
3. Differentiate instruction easily and appropriately
4. Promote the active use of discourse strategies to deepen mathematical understanding
During this hour-long webinar, CORE’s Director of Mathematics, Dean Ballard, examines all four requirements and share tips and techniques to ensure they are all incorporated into math instruction.
In this edition, you’ll find the Reading Expert examining the role of Guided Reading in differentiated small group instruction while the Marvelous Mathematician completes his second article in a two-part series on students with disabilities. This article focuses on the types of materials and knowledge teachers need for teaching math to students with disabilities, particularly mathematical disabilities. Don’t miss the Leadership Corner where you’ll find links to download two recently updated IES practice guides from the What Works Clearinghouse.
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When teachers have a range of evidence-based solutions at their fingertips, and a solid plan to effectively use them, they can better meet the needs of students who struggle with math.
Watch this on-demand webinar to learn best practices and practical advice to support these students from CORE’s Director of Mathematics, Dean Ballard.
Dean reviews:
Help accelerate math achievement with resources and strategies that ensure students receive instruction and supports appropriate to their individual needs.
Reading is a complex process that involves quickly and accurately recognizing words, understanding the meaning of words, and making sense of their meaning in context. Students identified with reading difficulties most often struggle with word reading.
During this on-demand webinar Dr. David A. Kilpatrick, author of Essentials of Assessing, Preventing, and Overcoming Reading Difficulties, discusses the importance of understanding the nature of word-level reading development and word-level reading problems in order to accurately assess reading difficulties and implement effective interventions.
Watch the webinar to learn: