Sample Grade 1/2 Language Block
This document shows a sample schedule for a language block in grade 1 or 2.
Making Sense of Screening Decision Tree
It can be challenging to navigate the many subtests that can be used in universal screening! Skilled reading involves the integration of many subskills. This chart can be used to identify the most pressing need for instruction. For older students – start at the top and work your way down to find the lowest barrier…
Next STEPS in Literacy Instruction: Connecting Assessments to Effective Interventions
This book is a fantastic resource aligning closely with much of the new Ontario Language Curriculum and reinforcing how assessment can inform our instruction and interventions in order to best help students succeed in literacy. It’s valuable learning for classroom educators, those working in coaching/consulting roles and those in special education. While targeting skills typically…
10 Success Factors for Literacy Intervention: Getting Results with MTSS in Elementary Schools
This excellent, reader-friendly book helps bring the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework to life in the area of literacy, with 10 success factors to help elementary schools get results with MTSS. Success factors include “Group by Skill Deficit”, “Monitor Progress with an Appropriate Assessment”, “Use Intervention Time Wisely” and “Invest in Professional Development”. This…
Clear Communication: Early Reading Screening
The Ontario Human Rights Commission’s Right to Read Inquiry recommended that the province implement universal early screening using evidence-based tools to reduce bias and support equity. As Ontario educators and boards collectively learn more about screening, several common questions have emerged. This document aims to provide clear language that systems leaders can use to respond…
Dyslexia Myths and Realities
Dr. Tim Odegard addresses myths around dyslexia, sharing his lived experience as a person with dyslexia. His powerful message encourages people with dyslexia to “shatter the myths and live the realities.”
Sample Junior/Intermediate Language Block
This document shows a sample schedule for a language block in the junior or intermediate grades.
Grade 2/3 Sample Language Block Plan
This document shows a sample schedule for a 110-minute language block. It’s important to note that this schedule should shift across the school year to better meet students’ changing needs. For example, focus may shift more to multisyllabic word reading and spelling.
Is ORF Useful in Grades 3 – 6?
Dr. Stephanie Stollar highlights ideas for using Oral Reading Fluency (ORF) assessment data for screening, designing instruction, and monitoring progress in the junior grades.
Explicit Instruction Videos – Primary and Junior/Intermediate
Dr. Anita Archer models explicit instruction across multiple content areas (decoding, vocabulary, comprehension, writing, etc.). Each video has an accompanying viewer guide.
Literacy Foundations for English Learners: A Comprehensive Guide to Evidence-Based Instruction
This title is a must-read for any educators working with multilingual learners (MLLs) of all ages, referred to in the book as English Learners (ELs). It affirms the necessity of a structured literacy approach for these students, while adding in the extra layers of support that may also be beneficial (e.g., comparing English and home…
We Been Knowin’: Toward an Antiracist Language & Literacy Education
Dr. April-Baker Bell highlights stories and narratives in an urgent call for anti-racist language and literacy instruction.
