Literacy 7-12

This framework is built on the core principle that students learn best through a blend of explicit instruction, guided practice, and personalized support. The schedule provides a flexible structure that allows for deep engagement with complex literary texts while also nurturing the individual growth of each student.

SAMPLE Daily Schedule Breakdown:

• 20 Minutes: Direct Instruction (Lesson Focus): The teacher delivers direct, explicit instruction on a specific skill or concept. This segment introduces a literary element, such as symbolism or theme, or a writing strategy like structuring an argumentative essay. This time is designed to be highly focused and efficient, ensuring students grasp the foundational knowledge needed for the day's work.

• 30 Minutes: Reading and Individual Work: Students independently apply the day's lesson by reading and analyzing a selected text. This could involve annotating a poem, identifying character development in a novel, or completing a specific comprehension task. This time promotes critical thinking and independent learning, as students grapple with the material on their own.

• 30 Minutes: Review and Practice: This segment is dedicated to reinforcing the skills introduced. It may involve a short writing exercise, a quick-check quiz, or a small group discussion to solidify understanding. The goal is to provide immediate feedback and opportunities for students to practice what they’ve learned.

• 60 Minutes (Concurrent): Student Independent Work and 1-on-1 Conferences: This is a crucial block for differentiation and personalized learning.

  • Independent Work (60 minutes): Students continue with their reading, writing, or analysis tasks from the previous segments. They may be working on a long-term project, drafting an essay, or continuing to read a novel. This extended time allows for deeper engagement with the material.

  • Teacher-Led 1-on-1 Conferences (60 minutes): While the majority of the class works independently, the teacher holds individual conferences with students. These conferences are opportunities for the teacher to provide personalized feedback, clarify misunderstandings, and guide students on their specific learning needs. This is where the framework truly emphasizes compassion and communication, as the teacher builds a deeper understanding of each student’s progress. The goal is to meet with 3-5 students per day, addressing individual strengths and areas for growth.

Alignment with the MRH Portrait of a Graduate

This framework is not just a schedule; it's a design for fostering the skills outlined in the MRH Portrait of a Graduate.

Critical Thinker: 

Students are constantly engaged in analysis. The framework's emphasis on reading different genres (poetry, novels, short stories) and dissecting their meaning during the independent work and conference periods directly cultivates their ability to think critically about complex ideas.

Communicator: 

The daily practice of reading and analyzing texts, along with the review and practice sessions, strengthens students' oral and written communication skills. The 1-on-1 conferences also provide a safe space for students to articulate their ideas and receive personalized feedback on their communication.

Collaborator: 

While the schedule emphasizes independent work, opportunities for collaboration can be embedded within the review and practice sessions. Teachers can structure this time for small group discussions or peer-editing sessions, allowing students to learn from one another and build a sense of community.

Compassionate: 

The 1-on-1 conferences are the cornerstone of this framework's commitment to compassion. By dedicating significant time to individual student needs, teachers can build strong relationships, understand each student's unique challenges, and provide the support necessary for them to succeed. This personalized approach validates each student's journey and shows that their individual growth is valued.