English Language Arts Grounded in the NYS Next Generation Learning Standards, our ELA program plays an important role in the GCCS curriculum. ELA is integrated into classroom Expedition content, allowing our students to gain a deeper understanding of the topics they study. English Language Arts Home > Curriculum > English Language Arts Kindergarten – 2nd Grade: Reading Foundations Skills Block Our primary grade levels use EL Education’s K-2 Reading Foundations Skills Block. These lessons are part of a systematic program designed to help students develop phonemic awareness and phonics skills so that they can become proficient at spelling and decoding text. Basic writing and handwriting skills are also taught during this daily block. K-2 Reading Foundations Skills Block A staple of the EL Education curriculum in practice at GCCS. Additionally, content-based literacy is taught through modules that align with classroom Expedition content. The structure of the module allows students to build fluency, practice language standards, and gain a deep understanding of rhythm and syntax. Students read, write, and discuss content using their learned literacy skills. Click here for more information on EL Education’s K-2 Reading Foundations Skills Block. Benchmark Assessments EL Education’s K-2 Reading Foundations Skills Block utilizes Benchmark Assessments to analyze student progress and make informed decisions for ongoing instruction. Benchmark Assessments Take a closer look at the process of assessing student progress. 3rd – 6th Grade: Sharpening our Skills In our upper grade levels, ELA is taught through modules that are integrated into classroom Expedition content. The curriculum engages students through compelling, real-world content. Students learn to navigate complex texts through “Close Reading” protocols. These series of lessons invite students to analyze, discuss, and build their worldly understanding. Writing is also a major component of the integrated ELA and Expedition block. Spelling and grammar skills are honed as our students engaged in a variety of writing projects throughout the school year.