The Wyoming Language and Literacy Plan (WLLP) recognizes the critical role of K-5 foundational skills in building both strands of Scarborough’s Reading Rope, emphasizing the integration of foundational and advanced literacy components as the basis for future academic success and lifelong learning. During these formative years, students transition from learning to read to reading to learn, solidifying essential skills that support all academic endeavors. The Kindergarten through Grade 5 section highlights evidence-based Tier 1 recommendations, reading science components, standards alignment, literacy interventions, and WLLP goals, demonstrating a cohesive approach to Wyoming’s literacy continuum. This framework ensures that all students are supported on their journey toward literacy mastery.
Aligned with the IES What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) Foundational Skills to Support Reading for Understanding in Kindergarten Through 3rd Grade, the WLLP emphasizes teaching K-5 academic language skills, phonemic awareness, letter-sound knowledge, decoding, and word recognition, along with daily practice in reading connected text. These evidence-based practices establish a pathway for academic success by systematically addressing critical components such as phonology, phonics, and vocabulary. Advanced word study builds spelling and morphological awareness, while fluency instruction fosters speed, accuracy, and expression through repeated and guided oral reading. Explicit comprehension strategies, such as summarizing and questioning, deepen critical thinking, while writing instruction across genres reinforces connections between reading and writing to enhance overall literacy.
Grounded in the Wyoming Evidence-Based Language and Literacy Framework, as detailed in Component 6, this guidance document is designed to support families—acknowledged as the first and enduring educators of their children—educators, literacy leaders, and stakeholders. Through these collaborative efforts, we can ensure that elementary-aged children experience a seamless progression through elementary school and transition successfully into middle school equipped with the foundational skills and knowledge necessary for continued academic success.
