Yes, CKLA (Core Knowledge Language Arts) is considered an evidence-based curriculum. It has been recognized as meeting the highest standards for educational interventions, specifically the 'Strong Evidence' criteria under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
Understanding Evidence-Based Education
In the realm of education, an "evidence-based" program or curriculum is one whose effectiveness has been rigorously studied and proven through research. This means there's scientific backing that demonstrates the program leads to improved student outcomes. For literacy programs like CKLA, this typically involves showing a positive impact on reading, writing, and language development skills.
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), a U.S. federal law, defines four tiers of evidence to help schools and districts choose effective programs:
| ESSA Evidence Tier | Description |
|---|---|
| Strong Evidence | Supported by at least one well-designed and implemented experimental study (e.g., a randomized controlled trial) demonstrating a statistically significant positive effect on student outcomes. This is the highest level of evidence. |
| Moderate Evidence | Supported by at least one well-designed and implemented quasi-experimental study (comparing groups without random assignment) demonstrating a statistically significant positive effect. |
| Promising Evidence | Supported by at least one well-designed and implemented correlational study with statistical controls for confounding factors, showing a statistically significant positive effect. |
| Demonstrates a Rationale | Interventions with a well-defined logic model or theory of change, supported by general research, and undergoing continuous evaluation efforts to examine their effectiveness. This tier does not require prior demonstration of efficacy. |
Meeting the 'Strong Evidence' standard means that CKLA has demonstrated its effectiveness through studies that adhere to the most rigorous research methodologies, providing a high level of confidence in its capacity to improve student learning.
CKLA's Alignment with the Science of Reading
A significant factor contributing to CKLA's evidence base is its deep alignment with the principles of the Science of Reading. This body of research, spanning decades, provides comprehensive insights into how children learn to read and identifies the most effective instructional practices.
Key elements of CKLA that reflect the Science of Reading include:
- Systematic and Explicit Phonics Instruction: CKLA provides structured and clear lessons on decoding words, moving from basic letter sounds to complex spelling patterns.
- Phonemic Awareness Training: Activities designed to help students recognize and manipulate individual sounds in spoken words, a crucial precursor to reading.
- Knowledge-Rich Curriculum: CKLA builds students' background knowledge and vocabulary across various subjects (science, history, arts). This is vital because strong background knowledge significantly enhances reading comprehension. Students who know more about a topic find it easier to understand texts related to it.
- Vocabulary Development: Consistent and intentional instruction in new words, integrated within meaningful contexts.
- Text Comprehension Strategies: Teaching students explicit strategies to understand and analyze complex texts.
- Writing Integration: Connecting reading and writing instruction to reinforce literacy skills.
Benefits of Using an Evidence-Based Curriculum
The adoption of an evidence-based curriculum like CKLA offers several advantages for schools, educators, and students:
- Improved Student Outcomes: Programs backed by strong evidence are more likely to lead to measurable improvements in academic achievement.
- Efficient Resource Allocation: Schools can be confident that their investments in curricula are being used effectively to support student learning.
- Enhanced Teacher Confidence: Educators can trust that the methods they are using are proven to be effective, leading to greater instructional confidence.
- Equitable Education: Evidence-based programs can help address achievement gaps by providing all students with access to high-quality, effective instruction.
- Accountability: Provides a clear framework for demonstrating progress and meeting educational goals.
By focusing on a comprehensive, research-backed approach to literacy, CKLA aims to equip students with strong foundational reading skills and a broad base of knowledge, preparing them for academic success.
