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Holistic Assessment in Early Math

Apr 18, 2024 | Differentiated Instruction, Formative Assessment, Holistic Learning

To design holistic assessment for early math, it’s crucial to grasp its essence and application in educational contexts. This article explores the concept of holistic assessment, its alignment with early math education, and the types of knowledge it evaluates. 

Let’s start with an understanding about how holistic assessment works in early math.

 

Holistic Assessment in Early Math. What Is it?

Holistic Assessment in Early Math. What Is it?

The concept of holistic assessment in early numeracy involves evaluating a child’s mathematical understanding in a comprehensive manner that goes beyond traditional assessments. 

This approach recognizes that numeracy encompasses a wide range of skills and concepts, including number sense, counting, measurement, spatial awareness, and problem-solving abilities. 

Holistic assessment aims to capture the full breadth of a child’s numeracy development by considering multiple sources of evidence and a variety of assessment methods.

Holistic Assessment in early math will consider all of the following:

Observation: Teachers observe children during play, structured activities, and daily routines to gather insights into their mathematical thinking and understanding.

Child-Centered Assessments: Children are asked to complete specific tasks or engage in activities that demonstrate their numeracy skills in a practical context. These assessments are often game-based and interactive but can also involve the use of manipulatives.

Portfolios: A collection of work that provides a comprehensive view of a child’s progress over time. Portfolios can include samples of children’s work, photographs of activities, and teacher notes, offering a detailed picture of their numeracy development.

Conversations and Interviews: Engaging children in discussions about numbers, patterns, and problem-solving can provide valuable insights into their thinking processes and understanding.

Self-assessment and Reflection: Encouraging children to reflect on their own learning and to assess their work can support their metacognitive skills and numeracy development.

Drawing Insights from Multiple Sources: Surveying parents, teachers and the community as well to gain a proper understanding of the child’s learning environment and circumstances.

The holistic approach values the process of learning as much as the outcomes, emphasizing growth and understanding over rote memorization or the ability to perform well on a standardized test or diagnostic. 

It considers the child’s learning environment, interactions, emotional well-being, and cultural background, recognizing these elements as integral to their numeracy development. 

Holistic assessment aims to provide a well-rounded, accurate picture of a child’s abilities and potential areas for growth, informing teaching strategies and supporting individualized learning.

 

How are Math Processes Different From Math Skills in The Early Years? 

How are Math Processes Different From Math Skills in The Early Years?

In the early years of education, distinguishing between math processes and math skills is crucial for developing a comprehensive mathematics curriculum that addresses all facets of a child’s learning and development. 

Both elements play a significant role in the foundational understanding of mathematics, but they cater to different aspects of learning.

 

Math Skills

Math skills refer to the understanding of mathematical principles and ideas. These are the “what” of mathematics—the knowledge pieces that students need to grasp. Examples of math concepts in the early years include:

 

Number Sense: Understanding numbers, their values, and how they relate to one another.

Shape Recognition: Knowing different shapes and their properties.

Measurement: Understanding concepts of length, weight, volume, and time.

Patterns and Sequencing: Identifying and creating patterns; understanding order and sequences.

 

Math concepts provide the foundational knowledge that students build upon as they progress in their mathematical learning. 

They are the building blocks for more complex mathematical reasoning and problem-solving in later years.

 

Math Processes

Math processes, on the other hand, refer to the methods and approaches used to solve mathematical problems. These are the “how” of mathematics—the skills and strategies that students employ to work with mathematical concepts. Examples of math processes in the early years include:

 

Problem Solving: The ability to think through a problem, understand it, and find a solution.

Reasoning: The process of making logical connections between ideas, developing arguments, and making predictions.

Communication: Using language, symbols, and diagrams to express mathematical ideas clearly and to understand others’ mathematical thinking.

Connecting: Relating mathematical ideas to one another and to real-life situations.

 

Math processes are critical for applying math concepts in various contexts. 

They involve higher-order thinking skills that enable students to use their mathematical knowledge effectively and flexibly.

 

Why Do Both Need to Be Measured?

Measuring both math skills and math processes is essential for a holistic approach to assessing math in the early years. Here’s why:

 

Complementary Development: Ensuring that students are developing both their conceptual understanding and their process skills is crucial. A focus on one to the exclusion of the other can lead to gaps in knowledge or ability. Process skills and conceptual understanding complement each other. Strengthening process skills supports skill development, fostering comprehensive mathematical growth.

Informing Instruction: Assessment of both skills and processes provide teachers with valuable information on how best to support each student’s learning, tailoring instruction to address learning challenges and build on learning strengths.

Building Foundations: Early math learning sets the foundation for future mathematical understanding. A strong grasp of both skills and processes are necessary for students to succeed in more advanced mathematics.

In summary, math skills and processes cater to different yet complementary aspects of mathematical understanding. 

Both are vital for a well-rounded math education that not only builds knowledge but also equips students with the skills to apply this knowledge effectively. 

Measuring both skills and processes allows educators to provide targeted instruction that supports comprehensive math development.

 

What Is It About Holistic Assessment That Allows It to Assess Math Processes So Well?

What Is It About Holistic Assessment That Allows It to Assess Math Processes So Well?

Holistic assessment measures math processes effectively because it considers various aspects of students’ mathematical thinking, problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and connections between mathematical concepts. 

By combining student-driven, game-based assessments with observational assessments by educators and input from caregivers, a holistic and comprehensive picture of students’ experiences and knowledge of early mathematics is created. 

This multifaceted approach allows for a deeper understanding of students’ mathematical abilities, preferences, and learning needs, empowering educators to provide targeted instruction and support that nurtures mathematical proficiency and confidence in students.

 

Student-Driven, Game-Based Assessments:

Game-based assessments captivate students’ interest and motivation, encouraging active participation and enthusiasm for mathematical learning.

Immediate feedback provided in game-based assessments allows students to monitor their progress, identify areas for improvement, and adjust their strategies accordingly.

These game-based assessments can be tailored to students’ individual needs and learning styles, providing personalized learning experiences that cater to diverse learners.

 

Observational Assessments by Educators:

Insight into Student Thinking: Educators can gain valuable insights into students’ mathematical thinking and problem-solving approaches through observational assessments, allowing them to identify misconceptions and provide targeted support.

Formative assessments provide ongoing opportunities for educators to monitor student progress, make instructional adjustments in real-time, and scaffold learning experiences as needed.

 

Input by Caregivers:

Caregivers provide valuable contextual understanding on students’ experiences, opportunities and knowledge of early mathematics outside the classroom, enriching educators’ understanding of students’ backgrounds and learning contexts.

Collaboration between caregivers and educators promotes a shared understanding of students’ strengths, challenges, and learning goals, fostering a supportive learning environment both at home and in school.

 

Applying Holistic Assessments in Early Math

Applying Holistic Assessments in Early Math

Holistic assessments are an integral part of modern early learning, especially so in math, as demonstrated in this article. Math processes especially, lend themselves very well to be assessed holistically, which is also shown in this article.

Effective tools with student-driven game-based assessments, teacher-driven observational assessments, and input from various stakeholders integrated into a single platform can significantly enhance the assessment process in early math. 

Sprig Learning attended the esteemed National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Conference earlier this year, known as the premier math education event, to present on the topic “A Holistic Approach to Assessing Mathematical Processes in the Early Years”

“Sharing the importance of a holistic approach to assessment and learning in early math and its practical application for classrooms is important to us,” says Jarrett Laughlin, CEO of Sprig Learning. He further adds, “ It’s about creating a comprehensive understanding of students’ mathematical abilities, which guides their growth and development”. 

With expertise in holistic assessments and a deep understanding of their application in early math education, consider reaching out to the Sprig Math team for invaluable guidance on implementing holistic assessment practices in early math settings.

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3 More Common Situations in Early Literacy Leadership and How to Respond

Jan 19, 2024 | Differentiated Instruction, Early Literacy, Formative Assessment, Holistic Learning

In a recent article, Sprig brings attention to crucial aspects of early literacy leadership with “11 Common Situations in Early Literacy and How to Respond”. 

It’s a must-read, if you haven’t done so already. Going beyond case studies and researched best practices, Sprig revisits previous blogs, extracting valuable insights that can pose challenging situations to early literacy leaders and presents their corresponding responses. 

As discussed, those initial 11 scenarios were not exhaustive by any means, and so Sprig expands the discourse in this article by introducing three additional common situations faced by early literacy leadership. 

Each situation is followed by an appropriate response. 

This approach taps into the wealth of experiences encountered by early literacy leaders, providing actionable learnings.

 

Situation 1. Needing Interventions Becoming the Norm.

Situation 1. Needing Interventions Becoming the Norm.

Amid the aftermath of the pandemic, numerous students grapple with significant setbacks, extending beyond their initial challenges. A concerning trend emerges—a flipped three-tier pyramid, wherein more students now require special assistance than those who do not. 

In classrooms facing this scenario, it becomes crucial to implement targeted actions that address the increased demand for support without overwhelming resources typically designated for tier 3 students. Balancing intervention strategies becomes paramount to ensure equitable and effective assistance for all students navigating the complexities of post-pandemic learning.

 

How to Respond:

The optimal approach involves integrating these interventions seamlessly into tier 1 and tier 2 instruction, as much as possible, both in core classroom teaching and small-group differentiated instruction. 

The issue at hand underscores the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of intervention strategies embedded within regular classroom practices, as opposed to relying on intensive programs that cater to too few students and often come into play when it may be too late for effective assistance.

Situations 1 taken from:

The Science of Teaching Reading: Effective Reading Assessment, Explicit Reading Instruction and Targeted Reading Intervention.

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Situation 2. Lack of Access to Early Childhood Education Centers and Programs.

Situation 2. Lack of Access to Early Childhood Education Centers and Programs.

The scarcity of accessible early childhood education centers and programs poses a significant challenge for school leadership dedicated to fostering high-quality early learning. Recognizing the pivotal connection between preschool attendance and kindergarten readiness, institutions face the ongoing challenge of addressing this gap through independent initiatives or collaborative partnerships.

 

How to Respond:

When faced with a lack of access to early education centers and programs, there are several strategies that early literacy leaders can consider:

 Community Collaboration: Encourage collaboration between educational institutions and community organizations to establish state-of-the-art childcare centers, similar to the initiative taken by Reading Area Community College in Pennsylvania. These centers not only provide early childhood education but also serve as valuable training grounds for educators.

Nonprofit Initiatives: Nonprofit organizations, such as the Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning, can play a pivotal role by launching early learning centers focused on providing free high-quality education to children from low-income families. This model demonstrates the potential for philanthropic efforts to address educational gaps.

Transitional Kindergarten (TK) Expansion: Following the example of Oakland Unified School District, districts can anticipate enrollment increases and take proactive measures by expanding transitional kindergarten facilities. By adopting a TK curriculum and making it universal, as planned in California, districts can accommodate more students.

Repurposing Educational Facilities: In instances where new elementary schools are built or existing ones are renovated, like the case of Fordham Early Learning Academy in Ocala, Florida, consider dedicating space for early learning programs. This proactive approach supports early literacy goals and provides a solid foundation for young learners.

Situation 2 taken from:

5 Emerging Themes in Improving Early Literacy

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Situation 3: Pressure of Mandatory Curricular Reforms

Situation 3- Pressure of Mandatory Curricular Reforms

Schools often encounter pressure or mandates to undergo curricular reforms, demanding thoughtful strategies for seamless implementation. This involves prioritizing professional development, integrating lessons seamlessly, ensuring accurate assessments, and adeptly adapting to new curricular frameworks. 

Delving into the measures adopted by schools and districts, this section explores the challenges inherent in curriculum updates and the strategies employed to meet these demands effectively.

 

How to Respond:

 Effectively navigating the challenges of curriculum reforms demands a multifaceted strategy, as illustrated by successful initiatives in various schools and districts:

Professional Development Focus: Wolf Creek Public Schools in Ponoka allocates three full days of professional development for elementary teachers, ensuring thorough preparation for the impending curriculum changes.

Curriculum Consultants Support: Edmonton Catholic Schools increase the number of curriculum consultants, providing crucial assistance to teachers and emphasizing the value of additional support structures.

Teacher Collaboration Emphasis: Black Gold School Division in Leduc underscores the significance of teacher collaboration as a preparation strategy, recognizing the power of collective efforts in adapting to curriculum changes.

Strategic Investment in Education: The Ministry of Education in Ontario invests $109 million, introducing new screening requirements, standardized tools, additional specialist teachers, and a language curriculum overhaul to enhance young students’ reading skills.

Phonics-Centric Approach: Fort Worth Independent School District shifts its focus to a curriculum emphasizing phonics, supplementing it with professional development to address potential issues stemming from a lack of exposure to grade-level texts.

Situation 3 taken from:

5 More Emerging Themes for Success in Early Literacy

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What About Hidden Challenges?

What About Hidden Challenges?

In the dynamic landscape of early literacy leadership, schools may encounter unforeseen challenges that could impact student performance and hinder the realization of their full early literacy potential. 

Identifying and addressing these latent issues is crucial for fostering a robust learning environment. Conducting a thorough audit of current practices in core instruction, assessment, and differentiated instruction becomes imperative to unveil hidden obstacles. 

For actionable steps on uncovering and surmounting these challenges, Sprig’s blogs offer valuable insights. A particularly relevant resource is the article titled “Navigating Back-to-School Challenges: Improving Reading Strategies for School Leaders,” where detailed strategies empower leaders to enhance their reading programs and proactively address potential hurdles. 

By staying informed and proactive, schools can fortify their early literacy initiatives and overcome all challenging situations.

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11 Common Situations in Early Literacy Leadership and How to Respond

Jan 12, 2024 | Differentiated Instruction, Early Literacy, Formative Assessment, Holistic Learning

Navigating early literacy leadership challenges in pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, and early elementary grades can be complex. As students embark on their educational journey, success in these formative years hinges on various factors. 

While situational challenges may arise, the reassurance comes from insightful case studies that shed light on similar scenarios and effective responses. 

This article covers 11 common situations, drawing from valuable knowledge shared in previous Sprig blogs.

Explore a wealth of information covering a spectrum of topics, all neatly compiled in this article. 

If you seek greater context for specific situations or a broader understanding of the early literacy dynamics at play, the referenced blogs provide in-depth insights. 

Let’s look at each situation, followed by a response recommendation.

 

Situation 1: Large Number of New Students Requiring Continuous Assessments and Additional Support

Situation 1- Large Number of New Students Requiring Continuous Assessments and Additional Support

The situation at Cornell Elementary School in Des Moines, Iowa, posed a formidable challenge due to the continuous need for accurate assessment of new students who might necessitate additional support. 

This challenge is particularly tough because it demands a reliable and efficient system to promptly identify and address the diverse learning needs of each incoming student. 

 

How to Respond:

To address this challenge, Cornell Elementary School implemented a three-tiered responsiveness-to-intervention model. 

Kindergarteners’ initial sound fluency and phoneme segmentation fluency, as well as Grade 1 students’ nonsense word fluency and oral reading fluency, were assessed at different intervals. Students scoring below benchmark levels were then provided with tailored support. 

This included more systematic instructional sequences, precisely targeted instruction at the right level, and increased opportunities for corrective feedback. 

The school’s commitment to progress monitoring and personalized interventions led to its recognition by the United States Department of Education as an exemplary implementer of the responsiveness-to-intervention model.

 

Situation 2: Widening Gaps in Access and Achievement 

Situation 2- Widening Gaps in Access and Achievement

Boston Public Schools (BPS) faced the challenge of addressing access and achievement gaps among students from diverse racial, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds. 

 

How to Respond:

To overcome this challenge, BPS initiated a Pre-K to Grade 3 initiative. This program introduced a new curriculum emphasizing vocabulary development, differentiated instruction, and professional development for educators. 

The early elementary grades saw the integration of developmentally appropriate instructional materials, including storytelling in preschool and student-centered instruction in grade 1.

By tailoring learning activities to match individual needs—utilizing visual aids, manipulatives, or smaller group settings—the initiative provided a more personalized learning experience. 

The outcome was a noticeable improvement in students’ critical thinking and collaborative skills. The use of higher-level vocabulary and the early introduction of personalized education from pre-K to grade 1 contributed significantly to the observed positive outcomes. 

Boston Public Schools’ commitment to high-quality early learning for all students, regardless of their background, successfully narrowed the achievement gap, promoting equity in education.

Situations 1 & 2 taken from:

High Performing School Improvement Plan. 3 Actual Cases from Early Learning.

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Situation 3: Overly Program-Centric Budget

Situation 3- Overly Program-Centric Budget

Many school districts face a common challenge during return on investment analysis, where the evaluation and comparison of various initiatives like professional development, technology investments (e.g., iPads), and after-school tutoring are undertaken. While this approach aids budgetary decisions, it falls short in directly addressing academic returns.

 

How to Respond:

To address this issue, ER Strategies (ERS), a Massachusetts-based non-profit partner to numerous school systems, advocates for a student-centered viewpoint. Instead of comparing programs, they recommend asking, “which resources will meet this need” rather than “which program is better.” 

This student-focused approach involves identifying the core need, particularly relevant in the context of early literacy to improve proficiency scores in language and math.

ERS emphasizes a system-wide perspective that transcends departmental boundaries. 

By concentrating on improving early literacy performance and understanding its associated cost drivers, districts can formulate cost-efficient solutions.This approach ensures a more targeted and impactful allocation of resources for educational initiatives.

Situation 3 taken from:

Early Literacy Academic Return on Investment For Schools

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Situation 4: Teachers Not Having Adequate Resource And/or Personnel Support

Situation 4- Teachers Not Having Adequate Resource And:or Personnel Support

The primary challenge here is the overwhelming workload faced by primary school teachers in managing various tasks, leaving limited time and resources for effective literacy instruction. Without sufficient support, teachers may struggle to provide a comprehensive and individualized educational experience for struggling readers.

 

How to Respond:

Literacy specialists and literacy coaches play a pivotal role in mitigating this challenge. By collaborating with teachers, literacy coaches contribute to a more well-rounded educational experience for striving readers. 

The impact of literacy coaches is highlighted through examples from a research paper in a large urban school district. The coaches enhance teachers’ efficacy in literacy instruction by addressing specific areas, such as utilizing students’ oral reading mistakes as teaching opportunities, employing diverse reading assessment strategies, offering targeted feedback during oral reading, and providing opportunities for applying prior knowledge to reading tasks.

The greatest gain observed when working with a literacy coach is the ability to match differentiated reading materials accurately to students’ levels. This tailored support ensures that students receive materials appropriate for their individual needs. 

Also, there is great value in a robust platform supported by learning resources to guide teachers. Such technology tools help the teacher become more efficient without necessarily hiring other specialist positions, even though having more such positions in an early literacy team is always desirable. 

 

Situation 5: Lack of Mechanisms to Track and Encourage Parental Involvement 

Situation 5- Lack of Mechanisms to Track and Encourage Parental Involvement

The main challenge here is the insufficient involvement of parents in the early childhood learning experience. Despite the significant impact of early learning on future reading success, there can be a lack of parental engagement during this period.

 

How to Respond:

To address this challenge, the collaborative effort between home and school becomes essential. Establishing a cohesive nexus between parents and educators is crucial for understanding and meeting the specific needs, interests, strengths, and weaknesses of each student, particularly in the context of early reading. 

By fostering a collaborative approach, information exchange becomes a powerful tool to ensure a seamless transition from early learning experiences at home to the formal schooling system, thereby enhancing parental involvement in the child’s early literacy development.

Situations 4 & 5 taken from:

Early Literacy State of Affairs. 6 Major Ways to Make a Difference.

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Situation 6: Inconsistency Between Classrooms and Grade Levels In Practices and Performance

Situation 6- Inconsistency Between Classrooms and Grade Levels In Practices and Performance 

The identified challenge here is about the narrow focus on early literacy success within educational institutions. Achieving collective ownership of literacy goals is crucial, but there may be resistance or a lack of alignment among teachers, staff, and administrators. 

Without a unified commitment to a coordinated set of standards, the vision for early literacy success may face hurdles, especially when dealing with a diverse group of educators with varying levels of experience and perspectives.

 

How to Respond:

The proposed solution is to establish collective ownership of literacy goals by fostering a culture of buy-in among all teachers, staff, and administrators. This involves careful hiring practices that prioritize individuals willing to commit to a coordinated set of standards that become part of the school’s family. By ensuring that everyone shares the vision, there is a higher likelihood of success in implementing early literacy initiatives.

Additionally,  adopting a school-wide literacy plan to broaden the scope of literacy skills beyond language classes. Administrators play a pivotal role in guiding teachers across subjects, such as math and science, to incorporate evidence-based literacy skills into their lesson plans. 

An illustrative example from Cedar Valley Community School showcases how a literacy intervention specialist expanded the literacy program, allowing students to practice essential skills throughout the day and across various classrooms. This holistic approach ensures that literacy is integrated seamlessly into different subjects and becomes a collective responsibility, enhancing the overall success of early literacy initiatives.

Situation 6 taken from:

10 Actions Schools Can Take Today to Increase Early Literacy Equity.

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Situation 7: Lack of Kindergarten Readiness Creating a Domino Effect

Situation 7- Lack of Kindergarten Readiness Creating a Domino Effect

The challenge presented involves issues related to kindergarten readiness, specifically the alignment of prekindergarten standards with each state’s K-12 standards. Kindergarten readiness is a crucial factor influencing early literacy equity. 

However, there may be obstacles in achieving this alignment, potentially leading to literacy inequity and inadequate preparation for kindergarten among young learners. This, of course, has ramifications for subsequent learning in kindergarten and the following early elementary grades.

 

How to Respond:

The suggested solution revolves around improving kindergarten readiness through data-driven measures and outreach efforts. The National Conference of State Legislatures recommends aligning prekindergarten standards with K-12 standards, and Sprig has created an evidence-based early literacy map for the US to assess this alignment. One of the questions addressed in each state profile is whether states connect birth to age 5 data with K-3 education.

To address literacy inequity at its root, collaborative efforts involving schools and the community to support parents. This assistance can take the form of providing knowledge or learning resources to enhance parental involvement, a significant indicator of early reading success. 

By facilitating the connection between prekindergarten and K-12 standards and fostering community support, the goal is to improve kindergarten readiness and, consequently, advance early literacy equity.

 

Situation 8: Persistent Lack of Interest and Engagement from Students

Situation 8- Persistent Lack of Interest and Engagement from Students

The challenge at hand concerns fostering interest and engagement in literacy among young learners. 

Progress toward literacy equity requires instilling a sense of curiosity and motivation in students, ensuring they actively participate in discussions about effective teaching approaches. If this is not the case, it is very difficult to teach them the foundational early learning concepts.

 

How to Respond:

To address this challenge, it is suggested to actively involve young learners in discussions about what is being taught. By incorporating their perspectives and interests into the learning process, educators aim to kindle a sense of excitement and engagement. 

The What Works Clearinghouse supports this approach, emphasizing the significant association between motivating and engaging instruction and improved reading comprehension.

The proposed solution underscores the importance of explaining the purpose of each lesson and the utility of various comprehension strategies to students. This not only enhances their understanding but also cultivates a genuine interest in literacy. 

By fostering a culture of literacy that aligns with students’ interests and motivations, educators seek to overcome the challenge of insufficient engagement, thereby contributing to the advancement of literacy equity among young learners.

Situations 7 & 8 taken from:

7 More Actions Schools Can Take Today to Increase Literacy Equity

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Situation 9: Static Teaching Habits and Practices That Are Difficult to Change

Situation 9- Static Teaching Habits and Practices That Are Difficult to Change

The challenge here is regarding the effectiveness of school improvement plans in changing teaching practices. 

According to a RAND Corporation survey, a significant percentage of teachers and principals express skepticism, with only 44% of teachers and 67% of principals believing that these plans lead to a transformation in teaching practices. 

 

How to Respond:

Teachers must be involved in the strategic planning process, emphasizing the importance of collaboration. The lesson drawn is that for school improvement plans to be effective, they must incorporate the insights and perspectives of educators, making strategic planning a collaborative endeavour. 

This collaborative approach aims to enhance the likelihood of meaningful change in teaching practice

Here are some trends observed in various educational settings that have successfully transformed teaching practices.

Reallocating Time Blocks Based on Need: Highlighted by Tennessee’s Haywood County Schools, reallocating time to focus on foundational skills led to a significant improvement in Grade 3 reading proficiency levels.

Aligning Intervention with Curriculum: Ethel I. Baker Elementary School in Sacramento City Unified School District demonstrated success by implementing daily structured literacy intervention classes, emphasizing a curriculum rich in phonological awareness, phonics, and sight words.

The lesson derived is that effective intervention strategies, aligned with curriculum goals, can positively impact reading proficiency. 

By implementing these trends and lessons, educators aim to bridge the gap between school improvement plans and meaningful changes in teaching practices.

Situation 9 taken from:

Evidence Based Early Literacy Trends With Examples

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Situation 10: Tug of War Between The Science and Art of Teaching

Situation 10- Tug of War Between The Science and Art of Teaching

Holistic development plays a major role in the overall success of a child, particularly in the context of integrated reading instruction. The challenge is to strike the right balance between direct and systematic instruction in alphabet knowledge and phonics, while also providing ample opportunities for conversations and reading sessions.

 

How to Respond:

To address this challenge, Dr. Gina Cervetti emphasizes the need for an integrated approach to reading instruction in the early years, incorporating the critical elements of learning the written language code, including phonics and phonological awareness, alongside fostering enriching conversations to enhance students’ oral language and vocabulary.

She advocates for a holistic strategy that combines explicit and systematic teaching of alphabet knowledge and phonics with activities promoting enriching conversations and reading sessions. Solutions like Sprig Reading emphasize the interconnectedness of these components, ensuring a well-rounded development in early literacy. 

The lesson derived is that holistic reading development involves a synergistic approach, where explicit and systematic instruction in foundational literacy skills coexists with activities that foster oral language development and vocabulary. 

 

Situation 11. Weak Core Instruction Increasing Dependency on Specialized Resources, Incurring Time and Cost Constraints.

Situation 11. Weak Core Instruction Increasing Dependency on Specialized Resources, Incurring Time and Cost Constraints.

The challenge lies in avoiding the premature removal of students from the classroom, highlighting the significance of inclusive practices for students in grades PK–2. When students are swiftly pulled out for additional support, such as with literacy coaches, it results in increased costs and time constraints on these resources. This allocation might have been more effectively utilized for those students requiring more urgent assistance.

 

How to Respond:

To address this challenge, one tactic could be a co-teaching arrangement as a strategy to provide greater support. In this approach, a specialist teaching role is pushed into preschool and kindergarten classes to assist any students who need support. The emphasis is on push-in strategies, where professionals co-teach with homeroom teachers inside the classroom. 

This approach aims to make early literacy recovery or acceleration efforts more serious and inclusive by involving both the homeroom teacher and specialist professionals in the classroom setting.

Another approach involves enhancing core instruction by continuously monitoring progress within the classroom, such as is the focus and success of  Sprig Reading. This allows for the early and frequent identification of specific interventions within the classroom setting. By addressing challenges promptly, the need for students to be pulled out and work with a literacy specialist can be minimized, preventing issues from escalating over time.

By prioritizing the presence of both homeroom teachers and specialist professionals, schools aim to create an environment where every student can benefit from inclusive teaching practices, particularly in the context of early literacy recovery and acceleration efforts.

Situations 10 & 11 taken from:

5 Hidden Gems for Teaching Reading in Schools

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Require Further Insights, Recommendations and/or Support?

Require Further Insights, Recommendations and:or Support?

While the solutions provided in this article offer valuable insights, they are not exhaustive or one-size-fits-all. 

Every school’s situation is unique, and tailored solutions can be developed based on specific needs. 

If you or your team are grappling with challenges outlined here, Sprig is here to help. Reach out to us for more in-depth information and customized support.

 

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2023 Recap–Resonant Engagements and New Horizons

Dec 22, 2023 | Differentiated Instruction, Early Literacy, Equity in Education, Formative Assessment, Holistic Learning

2023 was another incredible year for Sprig Learning! 

As we bid farewell to the year, this article reflects on some of the many wonderful highlights of the year.

Note that the office closes today, and will remain closed until January 2nd. 

We extend warm holiday wishes to all!

In the upcoming year, we eagerly anticipate delving into many more topics that will address your information needs and those that are close to your heart, providing valuable insights into early literacy.  

If you enjoy keeping up with all the latest news in Pre-K to 3 literacy in a regular non-blog format, our twice-a-month newsletter, Root to Fruit, is perfect for you. If you have not done so yet, consider subscribing today. 

Want to stay up to date on all that is happening in the world of early literacy, but also love the Sprig blogs for more in-depth breakdowns? Not to worry. All the latest blog articles are always linked on top of the news items in Root to Fruit.

If you know anyone who will benefit from a newsletter dedicated to early learning, refer them to sign up as well, and be ready for all the news that awaits us in 2024.

Now on to our 2023 annual recap.

 

Reading for the Love of It Conference

Reading for the Love of It Conference

In February, Sprig participated in the Reading for the Love of It Conference in Toronto. It was an excellent opportunity to connect with teachers, eager to learn about the foundational reading skills and strategies for their classrooms. 

The message of evidence-based early literacy resonated well, emphasizing the importance of regular progress monitoring in foundational reading skills. 

Visitors could see on the screen how Sprig Reading enables both high-quality tier 1 instruction and timely interventions for students requiring additional support. 

Moreover, attendees had the opportunity to win one of Sprig Learning’s storybook sets, showcasing endearing Indigenous characters and narratives designed to foster a love for reading. 

These collaborative items, created with Mi’kmaq Elders and educators, are available in the Sprig Store, along with Sprig Reading.

 

Ontario Association for Mathematics Education (OAME) Annual Conference

OAME

In April, we had the privilege of participating in the OAME Annual Conference, also in Toronto. It is the largest event of the year for math educators in Ontario. 

The conference provided an excellent platform to showcase the capabilities of Sprig Math, emphasizing its role as a tool to cultivate a positive math identity among students. 

The team demonstrated how Sprig Math helps teachers with targeted learning activities specifically designed to develop foundational math processes for early learners. 

The event was an incredible opportunity to connect with numerous like-minded math educators and leaders who are interested in assessing and instructing early learners in foundational math processes. 

At the conference, our sessions garnered enthusiastic engagement and appreciation, showing the significant impact and future promise of Sprig Math in early math education.

 

Measures for Early Success Initiative

Measures for Early Success Initiative

In the very next month in May, Sprig received great news! 

It had been selected for the Measures for Early Literacy Success initiative, opening doors to create groundbreaking assessment technology. 

Renowned for holistic assessments in Sprig Language, the opportunity now extended to develop an innovative math assessment tool for pre-K educators, children, and families. 

This initiative aims to bridge gaps in collecting reliable data on children’s needs, competencies, and progress in pre-K mathematics, targeting those Latine, Black and Indigenous children and families of low-income across the United States. 

The goal is to empower educators with insights for tailored instruction, minimizing bias and administrative burdens.

It’s a massive and fascinating project undertaken in collaboration with various partners. For full details, please read the press release. 

Internally, a lot of work is going on behind the scenes to make this dream assessment technology into a reality. 

 

Sprig Reading Turns One

Sprig Reading Turns One

In August, Sprig Reading celebrated its one-year anniversary since its launch in a webinar last year. 

The noteworthy occasion allowed the team to reflect on the tremendous progress and impact achieved thus far.

Throughout its inaugural year, Sprig Reading garnered an outpouring of enthusiastic feedback from educators who found immense value in utilizing the platform for a range of purposes, including assessment, instruction, and differentiation.  

Continuous product updates, including the latest version featuring time-stamped circle charts, have added great value for teachers. This enhancement provides teachers with a visual representation of progress between months and years, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of students’ development over time.

As Sprig Reading evolves, the team remains unwaveringly committed to supporting educators at every step of their journey, from seamless onboarding experiences to actively incorporating valuable client feedback into the ongoing development of the product roadmap.

The team’s dedication ensures that the platform continues to meet the evolving needs of teachers, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and innovation in early literacy.

 

Literacy Success: Early Readers K to 3 Summit

Literacy Success- Early Readers K to 3 Summit

Later in the academic year, as schools embraced the new school year which was in full flow, an extraordinary summit was graciously hosted by our partners, Joyful Literacy.

Literacy Success: Early Readers K to 3 assembled a stellar lineup of evidence-based literacy experts, each sharing invaluable teaching strategies meticulously designed to address all facets of foundational reading skills.

The summit provided much more than research-based recommendations. It went a step further by featuring administrators and teachers actively implementing the presented advice within their classrooms and schools. 

The discussions ranged from effective intervention strategies to the intricacies of weekly planning, providing a comprehensive perspective on the practical application of evidence-based literacy practices.

A notable highlight of the summit was the compelling testimony delivered by Chelsea and Nathan, a dynamic kindergarten teaching duo from Mission School District. 

Their demonstration of Sprig Reading and sharing of firsthand experience illustrated the transformative impact of the evidence-based tool  in the early learning environment.

Witnessing Sprig Reading share the stage with some of the foremost experts in evidence-based early literacy, including the esteemed Dr. Tim Rasinski, was a testament to the solution’s effectiveness.

This summit enriched participants with theoretical insights but also demonstrated the tangible successes and real-world applications of evidence-based literacy strategies. 

 

Closing The Year Out And Anticipating The Next

As we bid farewell to the remarkable year that was 2023, this reflection captures just a few of pivotal moments that defined Sprig Learning’s journey. 

From engaging conferences to groundbreaking initiatives, each chapter of the year unfolded with a commitment to advancing early literacy education.

The journey continues, fuelled by the passion for nurturing young minds through evidence-based practices and transformative educational experiences. 

Here’s to another year of growth, learning, and impactful contributions to early literacy education.

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The 6 Golden Rules of Early Literacy Development

Dec 14, 2023 | Early Literacy, Formative Assessment, Holistic Learning

It’s never too late for anyone to improve their skill level in reading or writing. But it’s best if such a process starts early, hence the importance of early literacy!

Sprig Language was created to help early learners achieve the fundamental milestones of literacy, beginning with oral language and leading to foundational reading and writing skills. Sprig Reading helps teachers track, assess and monitor the foundational reading skills throughout the school year.

What sets Sprig Learning resources apart from any other early literacy resources is that they support learning both inside the classroom and at homes with families. 

They are ideally suited for early learning, taking into account a young child’s learning process, and their daily interactions with everyone in the home and community. 

Indeed, in a child’s developmental years, the mind is like a sponge. Young learners absorb every bit of information, whether they interact with their:

Parents

Siblings

Grandparents

Uncles, aunts, cousins

Teachers

Caregivers

Friends

Learning resources

Learning programs

Thus, it’s important that early literacy development is a collective effort between all of the people, supports and resources involved. 

 

The Six Rules to Drive Early Literacy

Four Rules to Drive Early Literacy

When it comes to something as pivotal to future success as early literacy, there are certain rules for educators, which the research tells us makes a big impact on learning. 

They help give early literacy activities a shape and structure. They also help to combine the people, the process and technology into one seamlessly blended learning experience.

These six rules are integral in ensuring that early learners are set up for future success. 

When crafting an early literacy strategy, keep these six rules in mind. All are golden, so they are listed in no particular order. 

 

Rule Number 1— Use Recommended Duration Time for Planning

Setting aside dedicated time to focus on activities that develop listening, speaking, reading and all other literacy skills is essential. Often, if it’s not scheduled, it doesn’t get done in a meaningful way.

To make planning easier, Sprig Language includes hundreds of whole-class, center-based and individual activities that teachers can incorporate in their scheduled literacy blocks.  Every activity highlights estimated durations for the activity to easily slot in a classroom planner or schedule (see below).

Recommended Duration Time

The time mentioned for each activity lets the educator know approximately how long each learning activity is expected to take.  

Practice makes perfect, and practice requires dedicated time.

 

Rule Number 2— Build a Literacy Rich Environment

A literacy rich environment is one that includes sufficient educational materials and resources, both print and digital. 

When a young learner is surrounded by engaging and attractive resources, they are inspired! Resources can include material such as books, alphabet cards, writing exercises, cutouts to decorate classrooms that teach certain concepts, etc.,

Furthermore, it’s important to foster some level of digital literacy as well. One way this can be done is by having literacy apps and/or animated versions of storybooks, which stimulate multiple senses like audio, to build literacy skills. 

When an early learner finds themselves in an environment that is designed to promote literacy, they learn faster. 

Active and playful practice centers create engaging and interactive learning environments for young learners. By incorporating hands-on activities, games, and interactive materials, educators can make the learning process enjoyable and effective. One of the ways this can be done is through guided play-based learning.

It is critical to provide educational materials that are both on- and off-screen. The Sprig Learning platform is focused on assessment, instructional support and classroom management, but often it’s the many wonderful digital and physical learning materials that enrich the classroom environment!

Build a Literacy Rich Environment

Above is an alphabetic arc that is used to help build speed, accuracy, and automaticity in alphabet knowledge, letter recognition, and sequencing. 

There are hundreds more printable assets available through Sprig’s programs which allow educators to plan engaging classroom and center-based literacy activities. 

 

Rule Number 3— Be Consistent in What You Teach (Training and Application)

Consistency in Teaching

The Center for American Progress, an independent nonpartisan policy institute, says that “the advancement of literacy as a national priority has been inconsistent.” There is a need for targeted funding to low-income schools with a high concentration of students in poverty. 

It’s not fair to isolate the US in this lack of uniform planning for literacy improvements. It’s the same case throughout the world. In a recent study from Alberta, Canada, students from grade 1 to 3 were 8 to 12 months behind their reading level. 

More alarming is the fact that 3 out of 4 students who do not overcome their reading difficulties by grade 3, struggle with lifelong learning. 

In the US, a significant number of states have made the science of reading a prerequisite for elementary school teacher licensure. However, not all of these states require a comprehensive assessment of knowledge in all five components of scientifically based reading instruction, namely: phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension. 

There is a great opportunity for professional development (PD) to include all of these foundational reading skills, which happens through training. Equally, there is an opportunity to use tools that are built to help students master these essential reading skills.

Without such tools and training, there is a lot more room for improvisation on effective instructional strategies and for choosing the best evidence-based practices suited to building pronunciation, word recognition, etc. 

With a tool that is already optimized to work on all these areas, the PD finds an immediate outlet through which it can have the greatest impact.Sprig Reading works on the foundational reading skills such as alphabet knowledge, phonics, phonological awareness, reading fluency and comprehension.

 

Rule Number 4— Partner with Parents and Community

Learning to read can be so much more fun (and effective) for children when family members are engaged.

But aside from being fun, it’s a great way to ensure that learning continues outside of the classroom. Significant brain development for a child happens from two to seven years of age. So it’s important to maximize learning inputs during this time. 

Holistic learning is premised on building a comprehensive understanding of a child’s learning that occurs in the school, in the home and in the community, in a way that is both balanced and holistic.

Parents often struggle to find time to reach with their child, but there are many ways caregivers can  be actively involved in their child’s education. 

Just as a student is informed in school about all the reading resources that are available to them, parents should also be aware. There are many apps available for download that provide access to high-quality reading materials. 

To help bridge the communication divide between educators and parents, Sprig Learning resources have parent and caregiver surveys that help educators get a perspective of the learning opportunities that occur at home. 

Offer Structured Literacy Intervention

An example of a Caregiver Portal homepage where caregivers are able to see and complete personalized teacher-developed activities with the child to accelerate learning. They can also share their experience in a survey from the same portal.

 

Rule Number 5— Offer Structured Literacy Intervention

Structure ensures that no student falls through the cracks when it comes to acquiring the help they need.

Structured literacy intervention plays a crucial role in early literacy development. It focuses on providing targeted instruction to struggling readers, early and often, to help them build essential reading skills. 

With a structured approach, educators can effectively address individual learning needs and support students in their reading journeys. 

Sprig Reading offers the means to deliver structured literacy instruction, where the learning material is systematically organized, and provides the ability for teachers to deliver explicit instruction (for individuals, groups and/or classroom)  based on continuous assessment and observation.  

This empowers teachers to guide students towards reading success by following a structured approach to literacy interventions.

Regardless of the evidence-based intervention model used, such as multi-tier systems of supports or Response to Intervention, Sprig Reading enhances the capability for differentiated instruction.

The picture below shows a case where the assessment and instructional needs of students are similar, but where individual data is also displayed for further analysis as needed. 

Offer Structured Literacy Intervention

 

Rule Number 6— Formatively Assess All Students

Formative assessment is a powerful tool for understanding students’ progress and identifying areas that require additional support. It is a precursor to the earlier rule of offering structured literacy intervention. 

Formative assessments are essential for effectively supporting differentiated instruction. Solely relying on summative assessments can be detrimental, as the resulting data is often too late to address students’ current learning needs, and align them with appropriate lesson plans and curriculum. Without timely formative assessments, the opportunity to intervene and support students’ learning journeys may be missed, hindering their overall academic development.

By regularly assessing students’ reading skills and comprehension, educators can make informed instructional decisions and tailor their teaching accordingly. 

Sprig Reading offers a robust formative assessment mechanism via its circle charts that enable teachers to regularly track student growth, identify strengths and areas for improvement, and adjust instruction to meet individual needs.

Formatively Assess All Students

 

The Cheat Code

Cheat Code Eary Literacy Development

These six golden rules are incredibly powerful for early literacy development. It helps to have a summary takeaway that combines all of them into one effective adage. 

Summary Takeaway: 

Consistently schedule time to teach specific literacy skills in a resource-rich environment, in partnership with others involved in the child’s early learning. 

Formatively assess, track and monitor progress in a structured system that allows for timely interventions and personalized instruction.

Sprig Learning is passionate about early learning, especially as it relates to early literacy. If you liked reading this article, please consider subscribing to our blog. See button below.

If you have questions about implementing the right programs for early literacy development, please contact us. 

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3 Crucial Factors in Bridging The Gap Between Research and Early Literacy Success

Dec 7, 2023 | Early Literacy, Formative Assessment, Holistic Learning

Research related to early reading success is most effective when the findings reach the educators and administrators who stand to benefit from implementing them in the classroom. 

Through exploration of translational science, researchers have examined the many layers that exist between research and classroom teachers. 

These layers encompass policies, politics, governing bodies, education leaders in districts and states, higher education institutes, and publishing companies. They influence decisions related to curriculum and professional development at the leadership level.

The existence of all these layers can impede the successful communication and adoption of research in classrooms.

But worry not, the gap between research and practice, and consequently, the achievement of early literacy success through practical application, can be bridged.

By addressing the three crucial factors outlined in this article, any school district, governing body, or elementary literacy team can enact policies or implement measures to successfully translate the latest research into actionable practices.

 

1. Stay Up To Par with Current Research: Leverage New Tools/Resources or Adapt Existing Ones

Stay Up To Par with Current Research- Leverage New Tools:Resources or Adapt Existing Ones

If your school lacks a comprehensive standard or curriculum that covers all the research-based foundational reading skills, consider exploring supplemental tools that offer structured lessons and engaging activities/resources. 

These resources play a crucial role in ensuring students receive essential lessons and participate in activities that enhance their understanding of key concepts.

While over half of elementary school teacher preparatory programs now have evidence-based components in them, this was not always the case. 

In instances where elementary school teacher preparatory programs may have lacked evidence-based components, educators might be accustomed to certain teaching methods.

If educators are not receiving training in structured literacy within their current school environment, how can they acquire this knowledge while fulfilling their teaching responsibilities?

Are there accessible teaching resources with integrated professional learning components? 

Alternatively, can support from specialists, such as literacy coaches, increasingly employed by many schools, fill this knowledge gap for educators?

These are legitimate questions that have to be answered if any education system is serious about bringing science-backed and proven early literacy research into schools.

Gathering the right support for teachers is one of the quickest ways to help them translate research into effective practice for early literacy success. That’s why it tops the list of three crucial factors.

 

2. Integrate the Science of Reading with The Science of Teaching Reading

Integrate the Science of Reading with The Science of Teaching Reading

There is a need for identifying strategies to align classroom practices with current knowledge on literacy development and instruction. Achieving this goal hinges on gaining a clear understanding of classroom teaching practices.

It needs to be understood how reading is taught in primary grades.

Is there resistance among teachers toward broad educational changes? One key point of contention in the discourse on word reading development is the appearance of total disregard of the language acquisition model. 

If such perceptions exist, they must be dispelled promptly. Evidence-based early literacy has consistently highlighted the crucial need for decoding skills, such as phonics and phonological awareness, and also skills such as oral language and comprehension. 

All these knowledge areas, and more that have not been mentioned, collectively constitute the foundational reading skills essential for evidence-based instruction and assessment tools.

Language can be universally and naturally acquired without explicit instruction, thriving in enriched linguistic environments. Whole language approaches leverage the innate development of language skills, arguing that children can deduce meaning from print.

Yet, studies indicate that word reading is distinct from the natural act of language learning and acquisition. Unlike oral language comprehension, reading is not universally inherent across cultures, languages, or individuals. 

Thus, it can be asserted that oral language comprehension is natural, while word reading necessitates explicit instruction.

Thus, it can be understood how educator knowledge, beliefs and perception about their teaching philosophies matter a great deal. Because it is ultimately them who will have to formulate the right teaching strategy and tactics, in line with the research, and with help from others.

They must teach and progressively monitor the foundational reading skills explicitly. Additionally, they need to create routines and classrooms with appropriate activities and learning environments. 

It’s a big ask. Thus, recognizing the importance of the science of teaching reading alongside the science of reading, is paramount.

Teachers require support through professional development which not only imparts new concepts but also provides practical, teacher-centric advice on applying these concepts in the classroom.

 

3. Adopt a Holistic Approach That Makes An Effort to Know the Full Context of Every Student

Adopt a Holistic Approach That Makes An Effort to Know the Full Context of Every Student

What if teachers, equipped with added support and enriched resources due to school initiatives, align their teaching with the latest research on early literacy success? 

What if there’s a concerted focus not only on the science of reading but also on the science of teaching reading, incorporating the best aspects of their existing practices and extensive teaching experience? 

Fulfilling the above criteria would result in a successful realization of the first two crucial factors discussed in the preceding sections.

Even with the fulfillment of the two mentioned criteria, the early learner’s perspective in bridging the gap between research and early literacy success remains unaddressed.

While school resources and personnel have been acknowledged, the ultimate beneficiaries of the education system, the students, have yet to be discussed.

They indirectly benefit from evidence-based teaching practices like explicit and differentiated instruction, which tailor lessons to their individual competency. But understanding their full backstory and current learning circumstance is also crucial for an effective early literacy approach.

What does understanding a student’s full circumstances entail?It involves gaining insights into their interests, strengths, and learning experiences beyond the classroom, encompassing their home and community environments.

Understanding all these different areas to get a complete picture is holistic learning. When combined with evidence-based learning, it is a powerful deciding factor for early literacy success.

 

Bridge The Gap Between Research and Early Literacy Success 

We stand at a crucial juncture, armed with compelling evidence supporting specific teaching content and practices, which is finally being implemented at large in schools throughout North America.

Therefore, in this very important era of widely translating research into early literacy success, it is strongly encouraged to bear in mind the three factors highlighted in this article.

Using enrichment/supplementary tools +combining research with the art of teaching + learning as much as we can about the student= Abridgment of Gap between Research and Early Literacy Success.

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