Deep Dive: Unpacking the NJSLS-ELA

This workshop provides an in-depth exploration of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for English Language Arts (NJSLS-ELA). Participants examine coding, structure, and instructional implications across all ELA domains: Reading, Writing, Language, and Speaking & Listening. The session integrates hands-on activities and guided protocols to help educators unpack standards and consider the academic and scaffolding needs at each grade level. Additionally, the workshop includes resources such as climate change materials, diverse authors, and paired texts to support instruction aligned with equity and rigor.

• Lack of clarity around NJSLS-ELA codes and structure
  
  
• Need for practical strategies to unpack and apply standards to curriculum and instruction
  
  
• Limited integration of relevant, diverse, and scientifically accurate content into literacy instruction

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1. Understanding the Revised Standards and Coding System
   Participants will learn how to interpret and apply domain-specific codes across all 4 domains. They will develop an understanding of the intent and rigor embedded in each domain.
   
   
2. Using a Standards Unpacking Protocol
   Educators will gain a structured approach to unpacking standards by identifying what students should know, understand, and be able to do. This includes analyzing key concepts, verbs, misconceptions, and creating guiding questions to support student mastery.
   
   

       3. Incorporating Diverse and Relevant Resources
          Participants will explore vetted sources to enrich their literacy instruction with paired texts, climate change materials, and diverse perspectives. They will learn how           to connect standards to real-world, equity-centered content to enhance student engagement and comprehension.