ELA Lens: Contextualization & Relevance
Contextualized skill instruction engages learners in learning, using, and integrating ELA skills in meaningful ways that replicate how skills are used outside a school setting.
Well designed, contextualized instruction can ultimately do double-duty: teach ELA skills and develop knowledge of the world.
When making curricular or instructional decisions, ask the following questions (also downloadable as a one-page PDF):
- How are your learners building knowledge of content-area topics (civics, science, workforce prep, etc.) while learning and practicing ELA skills and standards?
- For ASE-level students who do not have separate classes for social studies or science, do topics relate to what they will see on the HiSET/GED or in their next steps?
- Do topics represent real-life contexts in which ELA skills are used by adults?
- Within the time available and other constraints, what is possible for project and problem-based learning?
- What opportunities exist for learners to apply the targeted ELA skills and standards in meaningful tasks, appropriate for adults? (in addition to passing the HiSET or GED)?
- If students ask, "Why are we studying this?" what will you answer?
- Do major tasks seem to be worth the time involved?
- Do any tasks need to be streamlined or simplified?
Tools and Resources
- ELA Proficiency Guide
- Learning Standards and Frameworks (including HiSET and GED)
- Resources for Content Areas (helpful for finding reading material video clips, lesson ideas, etc. related to social studies and science topics)
- Examples of Contextualized Curriculum
- Teaching Skills That Matter (TSTM), including an emphasis on Civics, Health Literacy, Workforce Preparation, and Financial Literacy
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SABES ELA Curriculum Hub |
SABES CCRSAE-ELA Hub | |
SABES ELA Home Page |
Topic Area
CCRSAE (College and Career Readiness Standards for Adult Education)
Civics and Citizenship
Curriculum Development
DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion)
ELA
Science
Social Studies
Media Type
Document
Website
Resource Type
Resource
PD Center
SABES English Language Arts Curriculum & Instruction PD Center