Expository Reading and Writing Curriculum (ERWC) 3.0
About the Intervention
The Expository Reading and Writing Curriculum (ERWC) 3.0 is a college-preparatory English language arts curriculum developed by the California State University for grades 11 and 12. It aims to improve students' readiness for college-level English and future careers through in-depth study of expository, analytical, and argumentative reading and writing. The curriculum is inquiry-based and focuses on rhetorical analysis of compelling issues and texts. Students learn to analyze rhetorical situations including audience, purpose, occasion, and genre. The ERWC 3.0 includes 67 modules (full-length, mini, and portfolio modules) from which teachers can design yearlong courses. Teachers are expected to teach five full-length modules, three mini-modules, and two portfolio modules per year. The curriculum follows an 'arc' structure progressing from Reading Rhetorically through Preparing to Respond to Writing Rhetorically. Professional learning includes annual Summer Institutes (2-5 days), five coaching cycles throughout the school year, and five community of practice meetings. The curriculum incorporates Universal Design for Learning, integrated and designated English Language Development, and emphasizes metacognition and transfer of learning.
Statistical Findings
Positive effect: on grade 11 achievement measured by Non-Performance Task Interim Comprehensive Assessment
No effect: on grade 11 achievement measured by Smarter Balanced ELA/Literacy Summative Assessment
No effect: on grade 12 achievement measured by Non-Performance Task Interim Comprehensive Assessment
No effect: on grade 12 achievement measured by Performance Task Interim Comprehensive Assessment
More Intervention Details
Focus Areas
N/APrograms & Services
General EducationDelivery Methods
Face-to-Face, Online – Synchronous, HybridDisability Support
N/ATarget Groups
Student(s), Teachers/Instructional TeamsCitation
Fong, A., Hadley, L., Porterfield, A. & Skjoldhorne, S. (2022). Expanding the Expository Reading and Writing Curriculum: An Evaluation of an Investing in Innovation Validation Grant (ED621317). ERIC. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED621317.pdf.
Study Demographics
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Other Participant Characteristics
Geographical Setting
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