A Unique Integrated Approach to ELA Arts & Letters provides students with authentic, grade-appropriate, knowledge-rich texts. Each module blends literary, nonfiction, fine art, and multimedia texts to engage all students in learning. Our curriculum revitalizes the traditional ELA block, seamlessly integrating literary knowledge with subjects like history and science, cultivating a dynamic and cohesive learning environment that builds enduring knowledge. Learn books include graphic organizers and other materials to support engagement and learning. More videos and additional multimedia resources provide students with dynamic opportunities to learn. Volume of Reading texts are available as resources to extend learning and support independent reading. Arts & Letters is designed by educators and literacy experts to complement systematic foundational skills programs. When paired with our information-rich book set, students can actively apply their growing decoding skills while exploring diverse topics. Arts & Letters K–2 modules align with the corresponding Geodes modules, offering a cohesive and well-rounded educational experience. The approach of learning to read first and applying knowledge later is a thing of the past. Grounded in the Science of Reading research, Geodes provides phonics practice and knowledge-building opportunities, while Arts & Letters deepens understanding of language and ideas. This integrated approach develops skilled readers and transforms reading into a powerful tool for discovery and knowledge growth. Knowledge has a multiplier effect. Literacy knowledge compounds as students progress through each grade level, increasing their ability to understand, explore, and make meaningful connections to the real world. In Arts & Letters, students explore interconnected, knowledge-building topics year after year, allowing them to integrate new skills, analyze ideas, and connect to topics across literature, the arts, history, and science. Cultivating strong school-home connections is a powerful way to expand and extend student learning outside the classroom. Learn more about how Arts & Letters can support your student when you access the welcome letter for families. As an Arts & Letters scholar, students read exceptional texts, analyze articles, and encounter art in exciting new ways. Enrich your student’s learning and provide support at home by familiarizing yourself with the module-level tip sheets. This list will outline the texts students will read, sample questions you can ask, and learning extensions you can provide. As your student progresses through each Arts & Letters module, they build knowledge of the world around them—not just in English language arts, but also in science, history, geography, and more. They read, write, and discuss as they learn, expanding their vocabulary and building rich layers of knowledge. Because when students know more about a topic, it’s easier to learn and retain knowledge. / Lesson Plan / Learning Corner

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A Unique Integrated Approach to ELA Arts & Letters provides students with authentic, grade-appropriate, knowledge-rich texts. Each module blends literary, nonfiction, fine art, and multimedia texts to engage all students in learning. Our curriculum revitalizes the traditional ELA block, seamlessly integrating literary knowledge with subjects like history and science, cultivating a dynamic and cohesive learning environment that builds enduring knowledge. Learn books include graphic organizers and other materials to support engagement and learning. More videos and additional multimedia resources provide students with dynamic opportunities to learn. Volume of Reading texts are available as resources to extend learning and support independent reading. Arts & Letters is designed by educators and literacy experts to complement systematic foundational skills programs. When paired with our information-rich book set, students can actively apply their growing decoding skills while exploring diverse topics. Arts & Letters K–2 modules align with the corresponding Geodes modules, offering a cohesive and well-rounded educational experience. The approach of learning to read first and applying knowledge later is a thing of the past. Grounded in the Science of Reading research, Geodes provides phonics practice and knowledge-building opportunities, while Arts & Letters deepens understanding of language and ideas. This integrated approach develops skilled readers and transforms reading into a powerful tool for discovery and knowledge growth. Knowledge has a multiplier effect. Literacy knowledge compounds as students progress through each grade level, increasing their ability to understand, explore, and make meaningful connections to the real world. In Arts & Letters, students explore interconnected, knowledge-building topics year after year, allowing them to integrate new skills, analyze ideas, and connect to topics across literature, the arts, history, and science. Cultivating strong school-home connections is a powerful way to expand and extend student learning outside the classroom. Learn more about how Arts & Letters can support your student when you access the welcome letter for families. As an Arts & Letters scholar, students read exceptional texts, analyze articles, and encounter art in exciting new ways. Enrich your student’s learning and provide support at home by familiarizing yourself with the module-level tip sheets. This list will outline the texts students will read, sample questions you can ask, and learning extensions you can provide. As your student progresses through each Arts & Letters module, they build knowledge of the world around them—not just in English language arts, but also in science, history, geography, and more. They read, write, and discuss as they learn, expanding their vocabulary and building rich layers of knowledge. Because when students know more about a topic, it’s easier to learn and retain knowledge.

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to analyze and connect themes from a selected literary text with historical and scientific concepts, enhancing their understanding of the interconnectedness of knowledge across disciplines.

Materials and Prep

Selected literary text (e.g., a short story or novel excerpt)
Nonfiction articles related to the themes of the literary text
Art supplies (paper, markers, colored pencils)
Access to multimedia resources (videos or online articles)
Graphic organizers for note-taking and analysis
Preparation of discussion questions in advance

Activities

Theme Exploration: Begin by reading the selected literary text. After reading, the student will create a mind map that identifies the main themes of the text and connects them to relevant historical or scientific concepts.
Artistic Expression: Using the themes identified, the student will create a piece of artwork (drawing, collage, or digital art) that visually represents their understanding of the text and its connections to other subjects.
Multimedia Presentation: The student will watch a selected video or view an online article related to the themes discussed. Afterward, they will prepare a brief presentation summarizing what they learned and how it relates to the literary text.
Group Discussion: Engage in a discussion with family members or peers about the themes, encouraging them to share their perspectives and ask questions to deepen understanding.

Talking Points

"What do you think the main message of the story is? How does it relate to what we learn in history or science?"
"Can you find any examples in the text that connect to real-world events or scientific principles?"
"How does creating art help you express your understanding of the themes in the story?"
"Why do you think it's important to connect different subjects like literature, history, and science?"
"What did you learn from the multimedia resource that surprised you or changed your perspective?"
"How can discussing these themes with others help you understand them better?"

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