About the Intervention
Zoology One (later renamed ARC Core Kindergarten) is a full-year integrated literacy and science curriculum for kindergarten students. The program centers around a daily 120-minute instructional block that includes four 9-week units implemented in succession (introductory unit, Zoology, Ecology, and Entomology). The curriculum uses a balanced literacy framework incorporating direct instruction in reading, writing, and science; complex text exposure via multiple daily themed teacher read-alouds; high-volume print exposure via supported independent reading in themed, leveled texts; formative assessment and progress monitoring during individual conferences or small-group instruction; high-volume writing practice related to science themes; and science inquiry including hands-on science activities and drama, music and art activities oriented around science themes. Students are expected to read for 30 minutes in class and 30 minutes at home each day. Teachers receive a full day of startup training at the beginning of the school year plus 10 coaching visits throughout the year from coaches employed by the curriculum developer.
Statistical Findings
Positive effect: on passage comprehension
Positive effect: on letter-naming fluency
Positive effect: on motivation to read
No effect: on word attack
No effect: on word identification
No effect: on word comprehension
No effect: on writing
No effect: on science
No effect: on general reading (DRA)
More Intervention Details
Focus Areas
N/APrograms & Services
General EducationDelivery Methods
Face-to-FaceDisability Support
N/ATarget Groups
Student(s), Teachers/Instructional TeamsCitation
Bowden, A. B., Fink, R. E., Gray, A. M. & Sirinides, P. M. (2022). Integrating Literacy and Science Instruction in Kindergarten: Results From the Efficacy Study of Zoology One (EJ1328060). ERIC. https://doi.org/10.1080/19345747.2021.1938313.
Study Demographics
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Other Participant Characteristics
Geographical Setting
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