Indiana Provides Course Descriptions for Middle Level Reading

 

The Indiana Department of Education on August 31, 1999, in its Course and Program Descriptions for Indiana Schools, provided the following information concerning Middle Level Reading (Grades 7 and 8 or Grades 6, 7, and 8—0480-06, 0480-07, 0480-08).       Middle Level Reading instruction enables students to continue developing independent reading strategies and to adapt them to particular concepts, purposes for reading, and choices of information.  Instruction focuses on opportunities for students to: Use word recognition skills.    Build vocabulary through (1) direct instruction and the use of varied reference tools, (2) independent reading, (3) instructional-level reading, (4) listening to selections read aloud, and (5) guided reading instruction.

Read and comprehend a variety of genres and materials and make connections to what is read.     Select strategies appropriate to the purpose for reading and for the type of text.   Determine the literal and inferential meaning of text, make predictions, and elaborate on meaning using prior knowledge.   Apply knowledge of story structure to analyze and interpret selections.   Use a variety of "real reading" materials and literacy activities to answer questions, to complete a task, and for enjoyment.   Use research skills to answer questions, obtain information, and solve problems.

Students respond to reading activities in a variety of ways.  They are given ample opportunity to select fiction, nonfiction, and other reading material from classroom libraries or school library media centers and to read independently for uninterrupted periods of time.  Students are also read to regularly.  Through the study of reading and literature, students continue to develop curiosity and a lifelong interest in a range of reading materials representing a variety of cultures, time periods, literary genre, and subject areas.  In addition, students are given opportunities to share their reading through verbal, written, and dramatic activities, using a variety of technological media.