Teachers highlight CKLA's impact on reading skills across grades

In a recent government meeting focused on educational advancements, the discussion centered around the implementation of the CKLA (Core Knowledge Language Arts) program in the Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD). Educators shared insights on how this new approach is transforming literacy instruction for students across various grade levels.

The meeting highlighted the experiences of both first and fourth-grade teachers, who noted significant improvements in students' reading skills since adopting CKLA. A first-grade teacher emphasized the program's comprehensive approach, which integrates phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, and comprehension. She pointed out that prior to CKLA, phonemic awareness was often overlooked, leaving students struggling to make connections between sounds and words. With CKLA, students engage in interactive activities, such as using giant letter cards and whiteboards, which not only enhance their learning experience but also make reading enjoyable.

As students progress to fourth grade, the focus shifts from learning to read to reading to learn. A fourth-grade teacher explained that while students continue to build on foundational skills, they are now encouraged to find answers independently and support their responses with evidence from the text. This shift fosters critical thinking and deeper comprehension, essential skills as students encounter more complex literature and subjects.

The discussion also touched on the importance of cross-curricular connections facilitated by CKLA. Teachers noted that literacy skills are not confined to reading alone; they are integral to understanding math, science, and social studies. For instance, students are now able to apply their reading skills to comprehend mathematical concepts, such as three-dimensional shapes, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in creating a cohesive learning environment.

Moreover, the educators underscored the significance of background knowledge in reading comprehension, referencing the "simple view of reading," which combines decoding skills with language comprehension. CKLA is praised for its ability to enrich students' knowledge across various subjects, moving beyond basic topics to include in-depth studies in science, social studies, and the arts.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the transformative impact of the CKLA program on literacy education within SUSD. As teachers continue to implement this approach, they anticipate further improvements in student engagement and academic success. The district's commitment to enhancing literacy through CKLA reflects a broader understanding of the essential role reading plays in overall educational achievement.