Kentucky Cognitive Literacy Model

Kentucky Cognitive Literacy Model (KCLM) is a supplemental literacy intervention designed for ninth-grade students who are significantly behind grade level in reading (scoring two grade levels or more below grade level). KCLM targets struggling readers by providing them with supports to be successful in learning across the curriculum through four integrated components: Motivation and Engagement, Strategic Processing, Instructional Strategies, and Communication Skills. The intervention is delivered daily for 45-75 minutes throughout the entire school year in classes of 12-20 students, replacing an elective course. Students receive a minimum of 225 minutes per week and a maximum of 375 minutes per week of supplemental reading instruction taught by an intervention teacher. The intervention uses thematic instruction with project/inquiry-based learning, explicit comprehension strategy instruction, vocabulary instruction following Marzano's principles, and writing to learn activities. Teachers receive 11 days of professional development training and ongoing support through site visits (up to 66 hours) from Kentucky Department of Education literacy staff throughout the year.