Reading

D. G. Cooley uses Benchmark Advance for core language arts instruction.

Benchmark Advance is a comprehensive, research-based literacy program featuring integrated units that build students' foundational reading skills, knowledge, vocabulary, and writing abilities. The program uses topic-based texts to develop critical thinking and comprehension skills through reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities. Students receive explicit, systematic instruction in phonics and word study to develop decoding and spelling skills. The program uses a knowledge-based approach to help students understand complex texts and build academic vocabulary across a range of literary, science, and social studies topics. Students engage in various writing activities, including text-based and self-selected writing, to produce narrative, informational, and opinion pieces. Essential questions and culminating tasks guide students to think critically and demonstrate their understanding through constructive conversations and writing. Units are organized around a central topic, creating a cohesive learning experience that spirals skills and knowledge across grade levels. Take-home activity calendars and letters help parents reinforce classroom learning with their children at home.