Using Data to Drive Reading Instruction: A Reflection

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Recently, we hosted a workshop for educators on how to use data to drive reading instruction. We discussed the importance of routinely gathering, studying, and responding to data. This cycle helps educators make smart, purposeful decisions that can close student skill gaps quickly. Now more than ever, it’s important for educators to use their teaching time effectively to make up for what was missed during the pandemic. 

Check out this framework we shared during the workshop, useful for both classroom teachers and school leaders. Let us know how you’re using data to improve your practice!

1. Gather baseline data.

Ensure you have a clear understanding of where kids are starting (at the beginning of the year, the beginning of the marking period, or the beginning of a unit). This allows you to group students effectively.

2. Set SMART goals. 

Assign skill-based reading goals. Share these goals with both students and their families. Ensure that everyone is on the same page about what kids are working on!

3. Progress monitor consistently. 

Informally assess students in between formal assessments. Reflect on what instructional moves are working to help students grow.

4. Establish professional learning communities. 

Group teachers with similar data trends together. Push them to engage in shared planning and best practice share-outs to lighten the load.

5. Implement interventions.

Look for patterns or outliers in the data. Then, try new things to help students grow. Implement 1:1 support strategies and whole-group practice.

Check out these resources we shared with educators. We recommend reviewing the guiding principles first, and then workshopping your own approach to data using the template. Let us know how it goes by reaching out to us at [email protected]. We hope these will improve your work with data and, in turn, help students make lasting gains!

Resources:

Guiding Principles for Data Analysis 

Data Analysis Template