The following instructional practices are implemented throughout our department:

• Reading assignments from longer text passages, as well as shorter ones when text is extremely complex.

• Making close reading and rereading of texts central to lessons.

• Asking high-level, text-specific questions and requiring high-level, complex tasks and assignments.

• Requiring students to support answers with evidence from the text.

• Providing extensive text-based research and writing opportunities (claims and evidence).