The Luna Curriculum: Research-Based and Student-Centered Language Arts and Math Instruction for Grades 3-5

Abstract

The Luna Curriculum (Bonin, 2016) was designed for use as Tier I or Tier II instruction in grades 3-5 classrooms. The Luna Curriculum provides a framework for providing effective instruction through the integration of a variety of research-based and research-tested teaching methods including; the CRA method of math instruction, math literacy, word sorts, interactive notebooks, strategy instruction, scaffolding, and assessment. With diagnostic assessments included within the curriculum, educators can easily assess where their students are in the Luna continuum and begin instruction. The Luna Curriculum also has The Extremely Complicated Universe series, original short stories that integrate the math and language arts concepts learned throughout the curriculum in a story format. Students will practice their skills while reading about Garrett and Stefan, two middle school students that help solve environment problems in the Extremely Complicated Universe. The Luna Curriculum is an important instructional resource for upper elementary teachers who are looking to provide research-based intervention instruction to their students in an engaging manner.