Common Standards Drive New Reading Approaches

By Dr. Marciene Mattleman

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The Common Core State Standards in reading and math have been adopted by almost every state and will go into effect by 2014. Catherine Gewertz in Education Week discusses implementation issues.

Reading no longer belongs only to language arts teachers; science and social studies teachers are expected to teach literacy skills using primary and secondary sources in history and diagrams, charts and technology in science.

Making the connection between reading and writing is critical, even for the youngest students - looking for details, searching for clues to back up the central thesis of a story.

Informational text is central - non-fiction - speeches, biographies, newspaper articles. Materials are being developed to bolster struggling students and provide support for English-learners.

Issues: Is there enough emphasis on comprehension; how about creative writing; while informational approaches may help disadvantaged students prepare for college; is it better to engage them in fiction to capture interest? How will districts pay for professional development for teachers?

There are still many questions.