Academics - Language Arts

Philosophy of Reading

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 Learning’s and specific Grade Level Expectations. The District believes it is critical to engage parents and community in literacy.

Philosophy of Writing

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.

Instructional Materials

6-12 GLE Alignments:

Reading K-5
The district adopted two reading programs, Houghton-Mifflin and Pegasus. Recently, schools have received professional development in reading using Readers Workshop.

Writing K-5
The district adopted a structured writing program, The Write Direction. Schools have begun to supplement this program with Writers Workshop.

Reading and Writing 6-8
All middle schools are implementing Writers Workshop. We are beginning an alignment of the Middle School Reading and Writing programs and will be posting updates on this process over the next twelve months.