Commonlit: increase literacy for all readers

What is Commonlit?

Commonlit is a supportive literacy tool, free to use for all teachers and students. The platform has an extensive library, with some of the following features:
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• Covers TABE levels 5-12
• Readings which include
  • In text vocabulary definitions
  • Guiding Questions
  • Discussion (Analysis) Questions
• Digital AND print versions
• Lesson and Unit Plans​

​Commonlit and Five Keys

We are developing F1s and a packet series for Commonlit, which is planned for launch at the end of the month.

Packets will cover the following:

• Elective Packet (TABE 3-8)
• English Packet (TABE 9-10)
• Advanced English Packet (TABE 11-12)
• Thematic Packets
• Packets based on teacher feedback

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Commonlit is also a great resource to support our students who will be taking the CAASPP assessment. The platform will help students practice traditional and digital literacy skills which are critical elements to the test. In particular, students will complete at least one “performance task” during their testing which will require being able to define words in context, identify themes, synthesize information and construct an argument—all skills that students can practice with Commonlit!

Quick Start!​

First, go to commonlit.org and find a reading! When you find a reading you like, choose an option to share the reading with your students. 

Detailed How-to

​Let’s run through some of the basic features of the platform. 

#1: Homepage
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#2: “Theme” Page
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#3: Related Books
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#4: Units and Lesson Plans 
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#5: Other Helpful Features
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​And much more!
 
Commonlit has constructed a site that is easy to navigate and adapt in many different contents and contexts. The site is also updated continually, with new readings and features added often.  Explore and you will find something fun for your students!