Curriculum and Instruction

Curriculum is "what" is taught in our schools. It is based on the Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements for reading, writing, communication, math, science, social science, health and fitness, and the fine arts.  The standards are taught using research-based instructional strategies and are presented to students in large groups, small groups, or on an individual basis. 

Instruction is "how" we teach the skills. Teachers use a variety of instructional strategies to motivate and bring children to mastery. The Lakewood School District is working to improve instruction using the research-based model Five Dimensions of Teaching and Learning developed at the University of Washington.