Welcome to the Literacy Resource Site for Seattle Public Schools. Check back for updates in curriculum, assessment, professional development, and instructional support for schools.

• DRA K-3 Overview
• DRA K-3 Quickstep Directions Revised: Fall 2007
• Quick Reference Document for DRA K-3
• Quick Reference Document for DRA 4-8
• DRA Scoring Outline - Spring 2008
• DRA Scoring Outline - Fall 2007
• Alternate Text Blackline Masters
• DRA K-3 Blackline Masters

• Reading Assessment Overview
• SPS Required Reading Assessment 06-07

• Reading Grade 6 (MS Word)
• Reading Grade 7 (MS Word)
• Reading Grade 8 (MS Word)
• Reading Grade 9-10 (MS Word)

• Amharic
• Chinese
• English
• Oromo
• Somali
• Spanish
• Tagalog
• Tigrigna
• Vietnamese

Reading is an interactive process between a reader and text. In constructing meaning, the reader combines knowledge of phonics, structure of language, and meaning of words. In addition, the reader's prior experience and knowledge are critical to the process. Reading is developmental in nature and complex; it requires learning the relationship between spoken and written language. The process of learning to read varies with each child. Literate individuals must have the tool of reading in order to continue to acquire knowledge. They will use that tool throughout their life to learn, explore, and to understand the world.

In Seattle Public Schools, our philosophy is guided by educational research in the field of literacy. A variety of instructional strategies make up a comprehensive, balanced approach to literacy. In order to be truly literate, students must develop skills and strategies in both reading and writing. The student's progress is measured by Washington State Essential Academic Learnings and specific Grade Level Expectations. The District believes it is critical to engage parents and community in literacy.

In Seattle Public Schools, our philosophy is guided by educational research in the field of writing and literacy. Writing is developmental in nature and a complex skill, and learning to write varies with each child. A writer combines knowledge of phonics, the structure of language, and meaning of words. In addition, the writer's prior experience and knowledge are critical to the process, in order to synthesize information and communicate with others. In Seattle Public Schools, students have the opportunity to write on a variety of topics, and for many audiences and purposes during their school career. They will use the skills they learn throughout their life to explain, to create, and to communicate in the world.

In order to be literate, students must be skilled in both reading and writing. The student's achievement is measured by Seattle Public Schools' academic standards and the grade level benchmarks. The involvement in and demonstration of writing by parents and community are essential with good models and instruction. All students will become successful writers as they practice and develop their skills.