We will be using the Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) curriculum to cover literacy needs in first grade.

This literacy program is rooted in the “Science of Reading" and uses a two-strand approach: foundational skills instruction and intentional knowledge building. 

Two-Strand Approach:

Foundational Skills: Explicit and systematic instruction in phonological awareness, phonics, vocabulary, comprehension, and fluency. 

Knowledge Building: Intentional development of content knowledge in areas like history, science, literature, and the arts. 

CKLA Knowledge Domains: 

The Knowledge strand of the Core Knowledge Language Arts program is designed to help students build the background knowledge and vocabulary critical to listening and reading comprehension. Through introducing, presenting, and discussing read-alouds in each domain, teachers build students’ listening and reading comprehension and oral language skills. 

CKLA Skills Units:

The Skills strand of the Core Knowledge Language Arts program teaches students the decoding skills needed for (future) independent reading. Each Skills lesson begins with a warm-up, reviewing previously taught content in reading, writing, and/or grammar.