Literacy is so complex. This is just a quick dive into literacy, specifically with what needs to occur in the general education classroom.
What you will not see here, is a lot, but here are a few….
SWRL (Speaking Writing Reading Listening), oral language, decodables, predictable text, foundational skills, responding to reading (orally and writing), comprehension, and so much more.
Okay. Key components of effective literacy in a general education classroom…
-time in text
-no wasted time
-greater time in small group versus whole group
-reviewing data, constantly, to adjust instruction (teacher moves)
-teachers lead interventions (with support from coaches, support staff, etc)
-resources available and PD (professional development) on how to utilize the tools to provide differentiated instruction
-culturally responsive teacher moves to reach all kids
-THE BIG 5
- literacy is number 1
- uninterrupted literacy block
- general education teachers lead interventions
- focus on data to guide next step teacher moves
- collaboration as a PLT (professional learning team)
Okay, that is the easy part. The work is having conversations with your PLT, literacy team, intervention team, special education team, and additional support staff in your building (and out of it) to ensure you and your colleagues are prepared to deliver the instruction that the kids need to grow.
I know there are literacy resident experts in your building. Connect with them, observe them, and model the most effective teacher moves in your classroom with the kids in your class.
Always be Meaningful and Memorable!
HIGH FIVE!
Daniel Gridley 