Leading Literacy Beyond Phonics: Implications of NAEP and Forward on Instruction
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We’ve built a strong foundation in phonics, but what comes next? Why aren’t Wisconsin students meeting NAEP proficiency standards? The latest NAEP data calls the educational community to action. While a single change may not raise reading scores, progress comes through collaboration across districts and schools, along with clear communication and a focus on proven solutions. It’s time to examine the texts and tasks students encounter on the NAEP and Forward exams.
What specific skills do students need to master? Educators and leaders must understand these demands to ensure that classroom instruction not only meets current standards but also prepares students for future literacy success. In this two-part deep dive series, let’s explore how to create high-quality learning experiences that set students on the path to proficiency.
Goals
How This Solution Will Benefit You
- Understanding NAEP: Gain an understanding of the purpose of NAEP, or the "Nation’s Report Card," and how it provides a snapshot of student achievement across the U.S., offering a national perspective on educational progress. Additionally, explore how the limitations of NAEP can be addressed by examining the Wisconsin Forward assessment.
- Targeted Instruction: Develop a clear understanding of the specific skills and thinking students must master for the NAEP and Forward exams, enabling focused, high-impact instruction.
- Curriculum Alignment: Review your resources to pinpoint strengths and address gaps, ensuring maximum impact. Identify strategies for teacher teams to enhance their awareness and make adjustments to strengthen alignment with key skills.
- Strategic Skill Building: Provide educators with effective tools and high-leverage routines to address the full spectrum of literacy skills required for long-term success, including comprehension and critical thinking.
Leaders will create a plan to address current gaps and also ensure that classrooms are prepared for the evolving demands of literacy assessment and achievement.
Structure & Schedule
Session 1: Leadership teams will analyze NAEP results and question types to identify the specific skills needed for student proficiency. They will examine the skills demonstrated by successful students and use these insights to understand the key factors contributing to success. Additionally, leaders will review Wisconsin Forward tasks to uncover recurring themes that further highlight essential skills. This process will enhance understanding of instructional gaps specific to each district, while also helping leaders recognize the scope and limitations of the data to avoid misinterpretation or overgeneralization.
Session 2: Leadership teams will examine local curriculum lessons to assess alignment with the skills identified in Session 1. Using insights and discussions from both sessions, leaders will develop a clear action plan with concrete next steps to drive literacy improvement across their districts.
Who Would Benefit
- K-8 district teams
- Curriculum Directors
- Principals
- Instructional/Literacy Coaches
- District Leaders
- Key Teacher Leaders