K-4 Curriculum Information

What Is CKLA?

CKLA stands for Core Knowledge Language Arts, a research-based curriculum designed to help your child build strong reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.

CKLA has two key parts:

• Skills Strand: Teaches kids how to read and write by focusing on phonics, spelling, handwriting, and grammar.

• Knowledge Strand: Builds vocabulary and background knowledge through engaging read-alouds about history, science, literature, and more!

Together, these help students become confident, independent readers who understand what they read.

 Why We Use CKLA

•  Phonics-First: Kids learn to decode words step by step.

•  Vocabulary-Rich: Students hear and discuss high-level, meaningful texts—even before they can read them on their own.

•  Knowledge-Building: Students gain background knowledge in science, social studies, and the arts.

•  Proven Results: Research shows CKLA improves reading success, especially for young learners.
  
  

What You Can Expect by Grade Level

Kindergarten – 2nd Grade

• Learning letters, sounds, and spelling patterns

• Sounding out and writing simple words and sentences

• Listening to stories about fables, animals, early civilizations, and U.S. history

• Asking and answering questions about read-alouds
  
  

3rd – 5th Grade

• Reading longer, more complex texts

• Expanding vocabulary and comprehension

• Writing full paragraphs and essays

• Learning about ancient civilizations, the human body, the American Revolution, and more!

Our Focus

We believe that all children can become strong readers when given the right tools. CKLA gives students the foundation they need to succeed—in school and in life. Thank you for partnering with us on this journey!