Description:

Teaching with paired passages allows students to synthesize information from multiple sources, deepen their understanding of an author’s purpose and perspective, and expand their vocabulary. Best of all, teaching with paired passages allows students to analyze multiple texts on similar topics. These real-world critical thinking skills lend themselves well to cross-curricular instruction and performance-based assessments.

Subject Area: English Language Arts (ELA)

Delivery Format: In-Person, Virtual, Hybrid, Coaching Support

Target Audience: Classroom Teachers, Instructional Coaches

Duration: Workshop (60-90 minutes), Half-Day (3 hours)

Facilitators:

Grade Level: Middle, High

Learning Intentions:

• Determine how to select impactful paired passages
• Plan instruction for active learning
• Plan station rotations that promote independent thinking
• Apply the VDOE 2024 ELA Standards of Learning

Success Criteria:

• Use the 2024 ELA Standards of Learning to select impactful paired passages and plan lessons that promote critical thinking.
• Use the DRTA approach to improve reading comprehension.
• Choose art and media that enhance instruction of paired passages.
• Design engaging paired passage activities for learning stations.

   

Key Topics Covered:

Content-Specific Connections, Literacy Across the Curriculum, Directed Reading Thinking Activity, Science-Based Reading Practices, Critical Thinking in the ELA Classroom, Vocabulary Development, Comprehension Strategies

Expected Impact:

The professional learning is expected to result in increased student engagement, improved reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and critical thinking. For teachers, the professional learning will enhance their ability to apply the 2024 ELA Standards of Learning, effectively select paired passages, and design engaging, active learning experiences, including station rotations and the use of the DRTA approach. For schools and districts, this leads to better support for cross-curricular instruction, performance-based assessments, and overall enhanced student literacy outcomes.

Testimonials: