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Writer's pictureDr. Denita Scott

Empowering Educators at DSES: Key Shifts in Mathematics and ELA



At Denita Scott Educational Services, Inc. (DSES), we're excited to continue our unwavering support for educators, including our vital substitute and interim teachers, on their journey towards achieving unparalleled success in the classroom. Your role is invaluable in supporting students' growth and development, and we're here to equip you with the knowledge and strategies you need. This week, we delve into the core strategies that can transform your teaching approach and empower your students to become independent, critical thinkers.

Greater Focus on Fewer Topics: Quality Over Quantity


In the world of mathematics, the Common Core State Standards call for significant shifts, emphasizing quality over quantity. This shift is crucial for ensuring students build strong foundations in math. As substitute and interim teachers, your mission is critical:

  • In grades K-2, focus on concepts, skills, and problem-solving related to addition and subtraction.

  • In grades 3-5, master multiplication, division, especially with fractions.

  • Encourage deep understanding, problem-solving skills, and procedural fluency.

Coherence: Building Bridges Across Grades


Much like constructing a bridge, teaching involves connecting concepts across different grades. Your role is to help students see how each step builds upon the last, creating a coherent progression. This approach ensures they understand the interconnectedness of math:

  • Guide students in recognizing how their current learning extends from what they've learned in previous years.

  • Show that each standard is an extension of their prior learning, making math a puzzle where every piece fits.


Rigor: Pursuing Depth, Skills, and Real-Life Application


Rigor in mathematics isn't about making math harder; it's about deepening understanding and practical application. As a substitute or interim teacher, you can help students thrive by focusing on three key areas:

  • Conceptual Understanding: Clarify the "why" behind math. Show students that math is more than just rules; it's a way to understand the world.

  • Procedural Skills and Fluency: Encourage students to be quick and accurate in core math functions like multiplication. This proficiency is the key to tackling more complex concepts.

  • Application: Empower students to apply math in real-life situations. To do this successfully, they need both a solid conceptual understanding and procedural fluency.


Now, let's explore the key shifts in English Language Arts (ELA) in the same coaching style:


Regular Practice with Complex Texts and Academic Language: Strengthening Reading and Vocabulary Muscles

As essential members of the educational ecosystem, you, our substitute and interim teachers, are pivotal in guiding students through the shifts in ELA:

  • Encourage students to read more challenging texts as they progress through grades, building their readiness for college and career-level reading.

  • Foster vocabulary growth by discussing words, providing direct instruction, and reading. Academic words like "ignite" and "commit" are invaluable.

  • Highlight that vocabulary and language conventions are integrated into reading, writing, speaking, and listening.


Using Evidence from Texts for Reading, Writing, and Speaking: Building Strong Arguments and Informed Essays


In ELA, the Common Core emphasizes the importance of using evidence from texts to support ideas, arguments, and claims. As substitute and interim teachers, you can guide students in this transformative process:

  • Teach students to answer questions based on their careful reading and inferences from the text.

  • While narrative writing is still important, focus on developing strong argumentative and informative writing, supported by evidence.


Building Knowledge through Nonfiction: Preparing for a Bright Future

In ELA, it's not just about stories; it's also about building knowledge about the world. You play a crucial role in helping students navigate these shifts:

  • Ensure a balance between fiction and nonfiction reading, especially in K-5. Nonfiction spans history, science, technical subjects, and the arts.

  • In grades 6-12, there's a greater focus on literary nonfiction, but rest assured, literature remains a significant part of ELA.







At DSES, our focus is on empowering educators like you with the knowledge and strategies to create dynamic, collaborative, and excellence-driven classrooms. These shifts in math and ELA are essential for preparing students for success in college, career, and life. Together, we inspire greatness within our classrooms.


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