First-Grade Teachers' Perception and Implementation of a Semi-Scripted Reading Curriculum

A teacher's role was dramatically changed from that of an educator to that of a facilitator with the adoption of semi-scripted curriculums. This case study explores teachers' perception and implementation of a state's English Language Arts curriculum in first-grade classrooms. Four first-grade teachers from a large urban school district were observed during the 90-minute literacy instruction block for four weeks each using Spradley's Developmental Research Sequence. In addition, data were collected from multiple teacher interviews. Qualitative analyses yielded the following themes: (a) teachers were minimally supported in professional development for using the curriculum; (b) they often ventured beyond the scope of the curriculum in resource usage; and (c) their planning was eased with the adoption of a semi-scripted curriculum. Furthermore, this sampling of first-grade teachers implemented English Language Arts curriculum through integrating both phonics and reading instruction. Findings are relevant to classroom teachers, curriculum coaches and administrators alike. (Contains 2 figures and 1 note.)