Designing a Concept-Based Curriculum for English Language Arts: Meeting the Common Core with Intellectual Integrity, K-12 - Paperback

by Lois A. Lanning (Author)

How to ensure your ELA teaching sticks

One thing we know for certain: the Common Core will become yet-another failed initiative unless our curriculum provides a clear, unambiguous picture of how to teach for understanding. The solution? A concept-based curriculum. Where can you learn how to create one? Designing a Concept-Based Curriculum in English Language Arts.

Fusing Lynn Erickson′s groundbreaking curriculum model with implementation guidelines and sample units, this important new book will put you on the fast track to using concept-based curriculum in your school or district. Lanning shows you how to design a curriculum that:

• Functions as a framework for lesson plans
• Unites the efforts of ELA teachers district-wide
• Addresses core standards while focusing on student understanding
• Creates a ripple effect helping to align curriculum, assessments, and instruction

"Lois Lanning′s new book is a clear, practical, insightful, game-changer for teachers who want to move beyond collections of facts or lists of standards to authentic, meaning-rich curriculum. I would have been a much better English/Language Arts teacher with these ideas clear in my thinking! And my students would have been much better served."
--Carol Ann Tomlinson, William Clay Parrish, Jr. Professor
Curry School of Education, University of Virginia

"Lanning′s experience and wisdom allow her to see the Big Picture when it comes to teaching kids about the Big Ideas we want them all to grapple with in the course of their time in schools."
--Jim Burke, Author of The English Teacher′s Companion

Author Biography

Lois A. Lanning is an educational consultant based on the east coast. Lanning recently retired her position as an assistant superintendent of schools for Pomperaug Regional District 15, Connecticut, a position she held for a decade. Other roles in her career include classroom teacher, K-12 reading consultant, special education teacher, elementary principal, district curriculum director, and adjunct professor. These positions span urban, suburban, and small town school systems, giving her a wealth of experience with a wide range of literacy practices. Lanning has extensive background in district-level curriculum work and staff development training. She works with other school districts and state departments, is actively involved in professional organizations, and presents at state and national conferences. Lanning is the author of several professional journal articles as well as other reading resources for teachers. First and foremost, her passion is helping all students become lifelong readers.