English Language Arts (Kindergarten)
Overview
English Language Arts (ELA) instruction in Norfolk Public Schools is guided by the Massachusetts Curriculum Framework for ELA. Our approach follows the science of reading, which emphasizes systematic, explicit instruction in foundational skills, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing. Instruction balances whole-class lessons, small-group work, independent practice, and reflection. Students participate in read-alouds, modeled writing, and guided practice, and they work on reading and writing independently.
In Kindergarten, students focus on developing phonemic awareness, learning letter-sound relationships, and applying those skills to read and write simple words. They also build oral language through listening and speaking, engage with rich texts read aloud by the teacher, and begin to write to share ideas. Word study in phonics, spelling, and vocabulary helps establish strong early literacy foundations.