Philosophy
Becoming a competent reader and writer is an essential foundation for education and for life. Building this foundation and establishing the assurance that all students will be reading on or above grade level is a priority for the Rockwall Independent School District.

Reading instruction at the elementary level is delivered through the RISD Balanced Literacy Framework. A balanced approach refers to the balance between skills instruction and activities designed to increase comprehension, all taught within the context of quality literature. Students must learn to decode and obtain meaning from the written word, while at the same time learn to appreciate literature and master the complexities of oral and written language.

The National Reading Panel Report (NICHHD, 2000) concluded that instruction in phonics, phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension were critical elements that must be present in an effective reading program. Instructional strategies to address these five elements are woven within the RISD Balanced Literacy Framework. The Framework delivers instruction within a workshop model to provide apprentice opportunities for students to learn by doing and foster independence by a gradual release of responsibility.

The RISD English Language Arts K-12 curriculum is designed to teach students language abilities needed to communicate effectively as individuals and as contributing members of society. It is an evolving curriculum in the sense that many of the same oral and written language skills develop over time.  RISD supports carefully designed writing instruction oriented toward acquiring new strategies and skills.  With full recognition that writing is an increasingly multifaceted activity, RISD offers numerous strategies that guide effective writing practices.

 “Write to be understood, speak to be heard, read to grow...” Lawrence Clark Powell 1906 – 2001

District Contacts:
Debra Lee -- Literacy Coordinator
dlee@rockwallisd.org
972-771-0605

Rhonda Wasson -- English Language Arts Coordinator
rwasson@rockwallisd.org
972-771-0605

LINKS:
Texas Education Agency
Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills
TAKS Information
International Reading Association
Texas Council of Teachers of English Language
National Council of Teachers of English