In second grade, we use the writer's workshop model for our whole-group writing lessons and incorporate rich mini-lessons from researched experts such as Ralph Fletcher and Jennifer Serravallo to enhance our students writing abilities in the areas of narrative, persuasive, and informative pieces. We infuse the writing process with helpful mini-lesson ideas from read-aloud mentor texts by Cynthia Rylant and Patricia Polacco as well as other esteemed children's authors.
As a recognized leader in multisensory, structured language programs, Wilson brings more than a decade of systematic and explicit instruction to the K-3 classroom. Based on the Wilson Reading System® principles, Wilson Fundations® provides research-based materials and strategies essential to a comprehensive reading, spelling, and handwriting program.
Wilson Fundations makes learning to read fun while laying the groundwork for life-long literacy. Students in grades K-3 receive a systematic program in critical foundational skills, emphasizing:
Phonemic awareness
Phonics/ word study
High frequency word study
Reading fluency
Vocabulary
Comprehension strategies
Handwriting
Spelling
The instruction aligns with states’ rigorous college- and career-ready standards.
Although Fundations includes comprehension strategies, it must be combined with a core/literature-based language arts program for an integrated and comprehensive approach to reading and spelling.
Fundations serves as a prevention program to help reduce reading and spelling failure. It is integral to a Multi-tiered System of Supports (MTSS) or Response to Intervention (RTI) framework, providing research-based instruction in Tier 1 as well as early intervention (Tier 2) for students at risk for reading difficulties. To support the implementation of an MTSS or RTI framework, progress monitoring is built into Fundations. This allows students requiring a more intensive program to be identified early before undergoing years of struggle.