7 Questions to Ask When Planning

Standards-Based Literacy Instruction

Adapted from the chapter “Using Standards to Guide Instruction” by Karin K. Hess, in Fundamentals of Literacy Instruction & Assessment, Pre-K–6, Second Edition, edited by Martha C. Hougen & Susan M. Smartt, with invited contributors

Which key literacy standards will be prioritized for this unit of study?

Are there other supporting standards (skills and concepts) that can be reinforced in this unit of study but not formally assessed?

What content will be taught and how will students demonstrate and apply their 3 understanding?

What are the broader learning goals for the unit and smaller learning targets for each 4 lesson, and how will they be assessed?

What is a logical ordering of learning activities, and how will earlier learning be connected to 5 later learning within and across units?

What texts could be used (or have been designated) for each lesson or within the 6 larger unit?

How will you measure your students’ progress and adjust your instruction 7 throughout the unit of study?