Read 180 incorporates instructional software, traditional paperback books and family engagement tools. The curriculum is based on five components -- instructional reading, modeled reading, independent reading, teacher-directed instruction and assessment.
For instructional reading, a student is given a passage to read highlighting vocabulary and spelling. Students may click on any vocabulary word for a Spanish translation and receive primary instructions in Spanish. During modeled reading, the students follow a online reading coach to increase fluency. Students may choose from a library of paperback books during independent reading. Teacher instruction is done daily through whole-group interaction and individualized assistance. The final phase of assessment determines the level of difficulty a student is likely to understand rather than typical grade levels. This method of evaluation is called Lexile assessment.
Cambium Learning Group's Passport Reading Journeys focuses on vocabulary recognition, comprehension and group study. Daily teacher-guided instruction is a key component in Passport Reading Journeys. The program blends computer work, videos and paperback books as a method to increase reading competence in middle and high school learners. The program uses Lexile assessment.
Odyssey is a software-based reading program published by Compass Learning. The reading and language arts program, which was designed specifically for older students, features vocabulary, phonics, research and interactive discussion. The program can be used independently or incorporated into an existing classroom curriculum. Students are given continuous computer-based assessment.
The Reading Edge curriculum published by Success for All places students in similar reading-level groups for instruction. After an assessment, middle school students are placed in groups that correspond to their reading level. The levels range from level 1 (first-grade reading level) to level 4-8 (fourth to eighth-grade reading level). Each group then focuses on five areas of instruction -- phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension and writing. The program is administered daily by a teacher and utilizes a library of books in levels 2 to 8.
The high school Reading Edge program focuses on comprehension of complex text. To help students understand complex readings, the Reading Edge for high school students offers the same four levels as the middle school curriculum plus Level 9 (preparation for honors and advanced courses). At Level 9, students are guided in strategies for critical reading, defending opinions and putting reading into context. Educators are provided training and ongoing coaching.