Learning to Read

At CES, we use Appleseeds to teach foundations of reading concepts K-2. Appleseeds is an evidence-based foundational reading curriculum being piloted with DESE and TNTP. Wilson Fundations is used in PK and grade 3. It makes learning to read fun while laying the groundwork for life-long literacy. Students in grades K-3 receive an explicit and systematic program in critical foundational skills, emphasizing:

• Phonemic awareness

• Phonics/ word study

• High frequency word study

• Reading fluency

• Vocabulary

• Comprehension strategies 

• Handwriting

• Spelling

Students in Pre-K learn:

• Letter-keyword-sound

• Alphabetic order

• Letter-formation skills

The instruction aligns with states’ rigorous college- and career-ready standards. 

We also use Geodes to support foundational reading skills. Geodes are the first texts for beginning readers that unite phonics with compelling content and beautiful art. With Geodes, students learn to wonder, to decode, and to know. They align to our ELA program for content, and also to Fundations for skills.