Teacher's Guide: Test Prep For CASAS Reading STEPS Level A, Forms 621R and 622R
This teacher's guide outlines a comprehensive implementation plan to help instructors deliver systematic, learner-centered reading instruction. By following research-based frameworks in the CASAS Reading STEPS Level A textbook, you can effectively help learners become proficient readers while preparing them for CASAS Reading STEPS assessments.
Pedagogical Approaches and Frameworks The guide is built upon three core frameworks to help students increase their vocabulary, improve their reading comprehension skills, and develop their critical thinking:
1. The PDP (Pre, During, Post) Framework
This framework supports the teaching of receptive skills by structuring reading instruction in three stages: • Pre-Reading: Activate prior knowledge, introduce key vocabulary, and prepare learners for the text. • During-Reading: Students read and respond to questions while the teacher guides understanding through prompts and support. • Post-Reading: Extend learning through discussion, personalization, and higher-order thinking activities.
2. The PPP (Presentation, Practice, Production) Framework
This framework supports structured language learning activities by moving learners through three stages: • Presentation: The teacher introduces new language and models meaning. • Practice: Students complete guided and controlled activities with support. • Production: Students apply language independently through meaningful tasks.
3. Bloom's Revised Taxonomy: This hierarchy organizes learning into six levels, from basic recall to higher-order thinking. Instructors can follow this framework to develop learning activities that help students go beyond basic understanding or WH-questions. Specifically, students should learn to analyze and evaluate what they read and consider the authors' assumptions and point of view.
