K–3 Teachers Build Reading Comprehension Using Evidence-Based Strategies

 

The Institute of Education Sciences has released the Toolkit for Teaching Reading Comprehension in Early Elementary Grades. Developed by REL West, this Toolkit is designed to support a schoolwide effort to improve reading comprehension for students in kindergarten through third grade. Developing literacy skills in the early grades provides a foundation for later academic success—yet recent NAEP scores indicate that many students across the United States continue to struggle. The Toolkit includes the following: Five online professional learning modules engaging K–3 teachers through a Learning Cycle of Learn, Plan, Apply, Reflect, and Refine—with videos, tools, and classroom-ready resources. A School Leader Guide with an overview, administrator role guidance, and teacher support tips. A Facilitator Guide and online modules to help coaches organize professional learning and encourage integration of WWC recommendations. Family and caregiver resources to extend reading comprehension support at home. The Toolkit is designed to help educators implement practices recommended by the What Works Clearinghouse practice guide, Improving Reading Comprehension in Kindergarten Through 3rd Grade. It is designed as a flexible 5–7-month professional learning experience, taking approximately 26 hours spread over 17–26 weeks. To access the Toolkit, please visit https://ies.ed.gov/regional-educational-laboratories-toolkits.