Introducing Off2Class Foundational Literacy Lessons

We’re thrilled to introduce the Off2Class Foundational Literacy Lessons, a groundbreaking addition to the Off2Class Lesson Library. This is a carefully crafted lesson module designed for English learners taking their first steps toward literacy in English. This release is the result of user feedback and collaboration with experts in literacy education. We created these lessons to meet the evolving needs of diverse English learners.

Literacy has rightfully made its way to the top of many district strategic priorities lists. Literacy gaps are often present across several secondary ELL student segments. Learning to read and write in English can overwhelm students due to English’s complex spelling and pronunciation. Many students struggle with literacy, which impacts their learning in core subjects and makes progress slow and frustrating. In addition, addressing literacy gaps in secondary ELLs is a challenge because most interventions target young learners and native speakers.

We designed the Off2Class Foundational Literacy Lessons to help exactly these students. Our lessons are comprised of 48 lessons that build upon each other. These lessons emphasize phonetic rules that aid in decoding words logically, reducing the need for rote memorization. Every lesson in the module concludes with reading practice, increasing in complexity to match student advancement. By the end of the module, students have the skills and knowledge they need to confidently access level-appropriate lesson content. Addressing these gaps targets a key blocker that is often limiting a learner’s English proficiency gains.

Who can benefit from Off2Class Foundational Literacy Lessons?

Put simply, anyone who needs help developing English literacy skills will benefit greatly from these lessons. However, there are three particular types of learners we had in mind when developing the Off2Class Foundational Literacy Lessons:

SLIFE (Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education)

Students often arrive in classrooms with varying prior learning experience, some with very little formal education and others with significant gaps in their schooling. They may struggle not only with the English language but also with adapting to the structure and expectations of a classroom setting. Their limited literacy, potentially even in their native languages, poses a unique challenge as they cannot leverage L1 literacy skills to learn English. We made this module to provide these students with a foundational literacy bridge. Through engaging, step-by-step lessons, we aim to build their confidence and skills in reading and writing, essential steps for their participation and success in an English-speaking educational environment.

Newcomers

Students who have recently arrived in the US or other majority English-speaking countries face a daunting challenge. They must navigate a new culture, a new school system, and a new language all at once. English, with its complex phonology and orthography, can be particularly challenging for learners from linguistically diverse backgrounds. Literacy Step-by-Step helps these newcomers by starting with the basics and gradually increasing in complexity. We focus on practical literacy skills that can help students quickly feel more at home in their new environment, supporting their transition and helping them to engage more fully with the world around them.

LTEL (Long-term English Learners)

Long-term English Learners have spent several years in the US educational system but have not yet achieved proficiency in English. These students often feel stuck, as their lack of literacy skills prevents them from fully participating in class and accessing content in core subject areas. They may also face social challenges and low self-esteem due to their difficulties with the language. Our lessons are designed to reignite their motivation and help them break through the literacy barrier. By providing clear, manageable learning targets with incremental achievements, we help LTEL students gain the literacy skills necessary to progress academically and socially.

We’re excited to announce that the first six units are available now, with the subsequent six slated for release at the end of May. We invite you to sign up for a free account and explore these lessons firsthand. Witness the transformation in your students as they step confidently into literacy and beyond.

We believe in the power of education to change lives and are dedicated to supporting teachers and students on this vital journey. By integrating “Literacy Step-by-Step” into your teaching repertoire, you’re not just teaching language; you’re opening doors to opportunity for your students. We welcome feedback and we would love to hear your success stories as you implement these new lessons.

Click here to jump directly into the first lesson in the literacy series.