CommonLit–a leveled reading resource

One resource I have used in my multi-leveled adult basic education classes is CommonLit. It allows an instructor to set up classes, assign a pre-assessment and leveled reading assignments for class, small groups or individualized per student. Often students struggle in different areas and demonstrate differing levels of proficiency. By allowing students to work at their own pace and at an appropriate level, it enables students to grasp new concepts quicker without the fear of it being too high or low. Individualized instruction is a task that requires a lot of planning time and effort on an instructor’s part but with online tools like Newsela and CommonLit, it makes such as task easier to navigate. In the past, I used Newsela when most of the articles were free; however, since they have a subscription model, I moved more toward CommonLit who (as of now) have many free articles, assessments and tools. I like free tools and my students seem to enjoy turning in their assignments and getting the online feedback. It can be used in mixed groups of differing levels or as a way to assign a class particular articles. One challenge would be if the online platform starting locking articles for paid subscribers. Many educators face budgets and I’m not sure if the amount of the subscription would justify money spent by a school program that might be utilized elsewhere. If anyone finds free leveled instructional sites, please share. I’m always open to innovation!

A little about myself

A little background about myself and journey in adult education…

I have a B.A in English Literature and A.G.S in Latin from McNeese State University. I have worked as an adult basic education instructor for English As a Second Language, GED (now HISET) and distance education for over 14 years for a local educational nonprofit. I have seen how adult education has evolved over the years and am working on my Masters in Adult Learning and Development from Northwestern State University. I will graduate in May and look to enroll in a doctoral program with a focus on workforce and educational technology. I have always been a proponent of equal access and how digital resources can help to bridge the gaps that students encounter in their educational and professional journeys. This blog is new for me as I share my thoughts and ideas on what I find in the wide wide world of online resources.