Choosing What Works for Literacy: A Quick Guide to Selecting High-Quality Instructional Materials

A clear, collaborative path to choosing high-quality literacy materials

Selecting literacy materials is too important to leave to chance. Author and literacy expert Dr. Molly Ness guides school and district leaders through a clear, intentional curriculum selection process for evaluating high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) aligned with the science of reading. From setting a shared vision to asking the right questions, this step-by-step road map helps schools build staff trust and prepare for long-term implementation.

K–12 school and district leaders, teacher leaders, coaches, and directors of curriculum can use this book to:

• Enhance decision-making skills when assessing and selecting HQIM for literacy
• Empower selection teams’ collaboration through a shared vision of literacy instruction
• Implement evidence-based practices grounded in the science of reading
• Navigate curriculum adoption with a clear, structured approach
• Benefit from reproducible tools and checklists to guide the selection process

Contents:
Introduction
Chapter 1: Assembling Your Team
Chapter 2: Defining Your Literacy North Star
Chapter 3: Determining Your Timeline
Chapter 4: Building and Sharing Knowledge
Chapter 5: Scratching the Surface
Chapter 6: Digging Into Materials
Chapter 7: Gathering Outside Perspectives
Chapter 8: Reaching a Decision
Chapter 9: Planning for Next Steps
Epilogue: Final Thoughts
Appendix A: The Miracle of Reading
Appendix B: Literacy Glossary
Appendix C: Important Resources on Curriculum Implementation
References
Index