Reading and writing

At PS 527 we rely on science-based approaches to teaching students how to read, write, speak, and listen. In kindergarten through 5th grade our school relies on the Wit and Wisdom curriculum, which builds student expertise on a variety of topics grounded in Social Studies and Science. Throughout the school day students interact with grade level texts in multiple ways that foster a love of reading and writing.  In all grades, students listen to engaging read alouds from their teachers, read books independently and write in a variety of genres. The building blocks for all of this comes from explicit instruction in phonics and phonemic awareness, based on the research and information on the science of reading.

Students in grades K -3 participate in phonics and phonemic awareness study daily using Fundations and Heggerty as our curriculum guides. Teachers work with students in small groups in order to deliver more targeted instruction based on student needs. Throughout the school day, multiple opportunities exist for students to actively listen and then engage in high-level discussions with their peers and teachers.